NEW YORK, NY – Brian Thompson, the 50-year-old CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was fatally shot Wednesday morning outside the New York Hilton hotel in midtown Manhattan in what authorities are calling a “premeditated, preplanned targeted attack.”
Thompson was on his way to speak at UnitedHealth Group’s investor conference when he was approached from behind and shot multiple times, according to police. The incident occurred at approximately 6:46 a.m. near Sixth Avenue.
The shooter, who had been “lying in wait,” fired several rounds, striking Thompson in the back and the right calf, police said. Investigators recovered three live 9mm rounds, three discharged shell casings, and a cell phone close to the scene.
The assailant, described as wearing a black hoodie, black pants, and carrying a gray backpack, fled on foot before using a Citi Bike. He was last seen in Central Park. As of Wednesday, no arrests had been made. Authorities are offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the suspect.
Thompson’s wife, Paulette, revealed that her husband had been receiving threats but did not elaborate on the reasons behind them. She said police informed her that the shooting appeared to be a calculated act.
UnitedHealth Group, Thompson’s employer, described his death as a profound loss, stating, “Brian was a highly respected colleague and friend to all who worked with him. Our hearts go out to Brian’s family and all who were close to him.”
Brian Thompson, 50, had been with UnitedHealth Group since 2004 and was appointed CEO of UnitedHealthcare in April 2021. He was in New York to attend the company’s annual investor conference.
Investigators believe the assailant used a firearm equipped with a silencer, as no witnesses reported hearing gunshots during the attack.
Former FBI special agent Nicole Parker spoke with FOX News calling the incident an assassination.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to uncover the motive behind the attack.
