In a chilling incident that has shaken the corporate world, Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was fatally shot early Wednesday morning outside the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan. Authorities have described the attack as premeditated, with the masked gunman lying in wait before striking.
Thompson, 50, had arrived at the hotel at 6:46 a.m., preparing to attend an investor conference. Surveillance footage shows the suspect—a man dressed in a dark hoodie, black face mask, and sneakers—firing multiple shots before fleeing on a bicycle. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch called it a “calculated and targeted” attack, with the gunman waiting in the vicinity for several minutes before opening fire.
First responders found Thompson gravely injured with gunshot wounds to the chest and right calf. Despite immediate CPR efforts and a rushed trip to Mt. Sinai Hospital, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Conference Halted as Tragedy Unfolds
UnitedHealth Group’s investor meeting, where Thompson was scheduled to speak, was abruptly canceled. Andrew Witty, CEO of the parent company, described the situation as a “serious medical emergency” before ending the event. The gathering was set to discuss the company’s anticipated $450 billion revenue for 2025, making it a high-profile event in a highly visible location.
Mayor Eric Adams sought to reassure the public, emphasizing that this was not a random act of violence. “This appears to be a targeted murder,” he said, noting the attack’s proximity to one of Manhattan’s busiest areas.
Threats Before the Attack
In a statement to NBC News, Thompson’s wife, Paulette, revealed that her husband had received threats before the shooting. While she didn’t elaborate, she mentioned that the threats seemed connected to his role as CEO. “I don’t know details,” she said, clearly shaken. “I just found this out and am trying to console my children.”
Thompson, who served at UnitedHealth Group for over two decades, was promoted to CEO in 2021. Known for his dedication and leadership, he led the insurance division of the company, which ranks as the largest private health insurer in the U.S.
A Calculated Getaway
The suspect, described as a white male carrying a gray backpack, fled through the Ziegfeld alleyway and was last seen entering Central Park. Surveillance footage released by the NYPD shows him gripping a gun—reportedly equipped with a silencer—as he escaped. No arrests have been made, and police are offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to his capture.
Shockwaves Across Communities
The news of Thompson’s murder has sparked reactions from corporate leaders, politicians, and the Minnesota community, where he lived. “This is a horrifying and shocking act of violence,” said Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar. Governor Tim Walz called it “a terrible loss for the business and healthcare community.”
Thompson leaves behind his wife and two teenage sons. Tributes have poured in from colleagues, with many recalling his significant contributions to the healthcare industry.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation is far from over. Detectives are combing through surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses. Police Chief Joseph Kenny noted that Thompson appeared unaware of any immediate danger, exiting a nearby hotel unaccompanied before the attack.
While authorities work to piece together the motive, Thompson’s death underscores a stark reminder of the risks public figures may face.