(Scypre.com) –
UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson Killed in Targeted Attack in Manhattan
In a shocking and deliberate act of violence, UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was fatally shot in Midtown Manhattan early Wednesday morning while en route to the company’s annual investor conference. The New York City Police Department (NYPD) has classified the incident as a “premeditated, targeted attack,” with the gunman still at large.
Gunman Lying in Wait
The shooting occurred at approximately 7 a.m. near West 53rd Street and 6th Avenue. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch described the attacker as “lying in wait,” masked against the morning’s freezing temperatures. “Many people passed the suspect, but he appeared to wait for his intended target,” Tisch said in a statement. “At this time, every indication is that this was a premeditated, preplanned, targeted attack.”
JUST IN: Video footage released of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson being executed by a masked gunman.
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) December 4, 2024
Video footage shows a man in the grey backpack pulling out a pistol with a silencer on it before opening fire.
The man was seen firing multiple shots at Thompson who… pic.twitter.com/xLatwSwnAJ
The assailant approached Thompson from behind, shooting him once in the back and once in the right calf. Emergency responders rushed Thompson to Mount Sinai West Hospital in critical condition, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival at 7:12 a.m.
Manhunt Underway
The shooter fled the scene on foot before switching to an e-bike and was last seen entering Central Park. Investigators are actively canvassing the area, and NYPD Crime Stoppers has announced a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the suspect’s arrest and conviction.
Law enforcement officials revealed that the weapon used appeared to be equipped with a silencer, adding an unsettling layer of sophistication to the attack. While the motive remains unclear, Thompson’s wife, Paulette, mentioned potential threats her husband had received. Speaking to NBC News, she said, “There had been some threats. I don’t know details, but I just know that he said there were some people that had been threatening him.”
A Life Cut Short
Thompson, 50, became CEO of UnitedHealthcare in April 2021. The company is a subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group, the largest insurance provider in the U.S. and the fourth-largest company in America by revenue, according to the Fortune 500. Following the tragic news, UnitedHealth Group abruptly canceled its investor conference, citing “a very serious medical situation with one of our team members.”
In a statement, the company expressed deep sorrow over Thompson’s death. “Brian was a highly respected colleague and friend to all who worked with him. We are working closely with the NYPD and ask for patience and understanding during this difficult time. Our hearts go out to Brian’s family and all who were close to him.”
Tributes Pour In
Flags at UnitedHealth Group’s Minnetonka, Minnesota headquarters were lowered to half-staff. UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty released a heartfelt video to employees, saying, “There are no words to describe how so many of us are feeling right now. Brian was a truly extraordinary person who touched countless lives. It’s a terrible tragedy, and we are in shock and disbelief.”
Thompson’s widow, Paulette, shared her grief with CNN, describing her husband as a “loving, generous, talented man who truly lived life to the fullest and touched so many lives.” She added, “Most importantly, Brian was an incredibly loving father to our two sons and will be greatly missed.”
Political leaders also expressed their condolences. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz called Thompson’s death “a terrible loss for the business and health care community in Minnesota.” Senator Amy Klobuchar described the act as “horrifying and shocking” in a post on X, formerly Twitter, while Congressman Dean Phillips stated, “I’m horrified by the assassination of my constituent, Brian Thompson, this morning in NYC and have his family in my prayers.”
Community on Edge
The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through both the business and local communities. The NYPD has ramped up its investigative efforts, with Governor Kathy Hochul pledging state police resources to assist in the case. “This senseless violence is a stark reminder of the importance of ensuring public safety for all New Yorkers,” Hochul stated.
As the investigation continues, UnitedHealth Group employees, friends, and family members are left mourning a leader remembered for his compassion and impact. For now, the search for answers—and justice—remains ongoing.