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The news of Brian Thompson’s death has deeply saddened the healthcare world. He was the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, tragically shot in a targeted attack outside the New York Hilton Midtown hotel in Manhattan1. It’s hard not to feel grief and anger at such a senseless act. Thompson, just 50, had spent over 20 years with UnitedHealth Group2.
The shooting happened around 6:45 a.m. on a Wednesday, as Thompson was heading to a conference12. This event has left the healthcare community in shock. They mourn the loss of a leader who had guided UnitedHealthcare to great success3.
Key Takeaways
- Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was fatally shot in a targeted attack in New York City.
- The shooting occurred around 6:45 a.m. outside the Hilton Midtown hotel, just before an investor conference.
- Thompson, 50 years old, had been with UnitedHealth Group for over 20 years, serving as CEO since 2021.
- UnitedHealthcare is the largest private health insurer in the U.S., generating over $281 billion in revenue last year.
- The investigation is ongoing, with the NYPD offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the suspect’s arrest and conviction.
Breaking News: UnitedHealthcare CEO Shot in Manhattan
The CEO of UnitedHealthcare, Brian Thompson, was fatally shot in a targeted attack in Midtown Manhattan456. This happened just before 7 a.m. on West 54th Street, close to Rockefeller Center. The area was set to host the Christmas tree lighting event.
Details of the Early Morning Incident
Thompson was shot once in the back and once in the right calf while walking to work456. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch called it a “premeditated, preplanned targeted attack.” She said it was a deliberate and calculated act.
Initial Police Response
The NYPD quickly secured the area and started an investigation4. They found a dropped phone and a bottle of water. These could help identify the suspect4.
Location and Timing
The shooting happened at 6:45 a.m. on West 54th Street, between Sixth and Seventh Avenues46. Thompson was taken to Mount Sinai West hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 7:12 a.m46..
The shooting’s location, near Rockefeller Center, shows how brazen the attack was4. The NYPD is looking for the suspect, who was seen fleeing on foot and then on a rental bicycle towards Central Park5.
This tragic event has shocked the corporate world and New York City. The NYPD is asking for the public’s help in finding the person responsible for this fatal incident456.
Brian Thompson fatally shot: Timeline of Events
The tragic shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson happened quickly in New York City. The gunman arrived around 6:40 a.m7. He then found Thompson at 6:44 a.m7. The suspect fired, hitting Thompson in the back and leg from close range8.
Police got a 911 call at 6:46 a.m7. They found Thompson wounded outside the Hilton Hotel. Sadly, the 55-year-old CEO died at Roosevelt Hospital at 7:12 a.m7. The gunman was last seen on a city e-bike, entering Central Park at 6:48 a.m7.
This act of deadly force shocked everyone at UnitedHealth Group’s investor conference8. Police are looking into the UnitedHealthcare CEO shooting timeline. They found 9mm shell casings and a cellphone at the scene7. The motive is still unknown, but a $10,000 reward is offered for tips7.
The healthcare world is mourning the loss of Brian Thompson8. The search for the suspect and finding out why this happened is a top priority for police.
Description of the Targeted Attack
Surveillance footage shows a shocking scene of an officer-involved shooting. It took the life of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson9. A masked gunman waited outside the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan, ignoring others9.
When Thompson approached, the suspect, wearing black and a gray backpack9, quickly attacked from behind. He fired multiple times, hitting Thompson in the back and leg91011.
Witness Accounts
Eyewitnesses saw Thompson fall to the sidewalk after being shot9. Police found three shell casings and three live rounds at the scene9. This shows the attack was planned and deadly9.
Despite help from first responders, Thompson was pronounced dead at Roosevelt Hospital at 7:12 a.m11.
Crime Scene Evidence
Police found a discarded cell phone that might belong to the suspect9. The NYPD and CrimeStoppers are offering a $10,000 reward for tips leading to the attacker’s capture911.
The suspect is described as a white male in a dark jacket, black face mask, and black and white sneakers911.
| Evidence Collected | Details |
|---|---|
| Shell Casings | 3 discharged 9-millimeter shell casings |
| Live Rounds | 3 live 9-millimeter rounds |
| Suspect’s Cell Phone | Found in an alleyway near the Hilton Hotel |
| Suspect Description | White male, dark jacket, black face mask, black and white sneakers, carrying a gray backpack |
The police are working hard to track the gunman’s actions before and after the fatal encounter910.
The Gunman’s Methodology and Escape
The fatal law enforcement incident that took UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s life was carried out with chilling precision. The 50-year-old executive was shot at close range in Midtown Manhattan. The gunman showed great skill with firearms1213.
Surveillance footage showed the suspect, a tall, thin man in a black hoodie and pants, with a gray backpack. He waited for Thompson outside the New York Hilton13. When Thompson approached, the shooter fired, hitting him several times, including in the back and right calf1213.
Even when the gun jammed, the gunman quickly fixed it and kept shooting. He used a 9mm gun, possibly with a silencer1213. After the shooting, he ran away on foot and then took an electric Citi Bike to escape into Central Park. He left behind shell casings and live rounds with the words “deny,” “defend,” and “depose.”12
Police found a discarded cellphone, water bottle, and power bar wrappers to help solve the case. They now offer a $10,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest of the shooter1213.
| Key Details | Value |
|---|---|
| Victim | Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare |
| Age | 50 years old |
| Location | Midtown Manhattan, outside New York Hilton |
| Time | 6:45 a.m. |
| Weapon | 9mm firearm, possibly with silencer |
| Suspect Description | Tall, thin male, wearing black hoodie, black pants, gray backpack |
| Escape Route | Fled on foot, then electric Citi Bike into Central Park |
| Reward Offered | $10,000 for information leading to arrest |
Police Investigation and Manhunt Details
The New York Police Department (NYPD) is working hard to solve the case of the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson14. They are using planes, dogs, and drones to find the suspect. The community is very upset about this14.
NYPD Resources Deployed
Police are looking at video from a Starbucks where the suspect was seen before the shooting15. They are offering a $10,000 reward for tips that lead to the suspect’s capture1415.
Search Operations in Central Park
The search is mainly in Central Park and the Upper West Side. The suspect was seen on an electric bike after the shooting15. People are very worried, and big companies are talking about how to stay safe15.
Evidence Collection Process
Teams are carefully collecting evidence to find out why this happened16. They are working hard to catch the suspect and make them face justice16.
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare |
| Time and Location | Around 6:45 a.m. Eastern time, outside the New York Hilton Midtown |
| Injuries | Thompson was struck at least once in the back and at least once in the right calf |
| Reward | $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect |
| Suspect | Remains at large, seen riding an electric Citi Bike in Central Park |
Brian Thompson’s Leadership at UnitedHealthcare
Brian Thompson led UnitedHealthcare with great skill and dedication. He became CEO in April 2021, after nearly 20 years with the company17. Before that, he held important roles like CEO of UnitedHealthcare government programs and UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement17.
Under his leadership, UnitedHealthcare grew to employ about 140,000 people. It offered insurance to employers and individuals across the US17. In 2023, Thompson’s total compensation was $10.2 million, showing his big impact on the company’s success17. UnitedHealth Group, the parent company, is a $562 billion giant, the biggest in the US healthcare1718.
Thompson focused on “value-based care,” aiming to keep patients healthy and manage their health needs17. Before joining UnitedHealth Group, he was a certified public accountant at PwC17. He graduated from the University of Iowa in 1997 with a business administration degree17.
Thompson was highly respected for his leadership and knowledge. Michael J. Alkire, President of Premier Inc., praised his work improving patient care18. Maria Ghazal, President of Healthcare Leadership Council, also noted his significant impact18.
Tragically, Thompson was fatally shot in New York City. His death has deeply affected the healthcare community18. His wife remembered him as “an incredibly loving, generous, talented man who truly lived life to the fullest and touched so many lives.”17
| Key Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| UnitedHealthcare Revenue | UnitedHealthcare is on pace to generate roughly $300 billion in revenue this year, maintaining its position as the largest health insurance company in America19. |
| Medicare Advantage Enrollment | UnitedHealthcare has approximately 9.5 million enrollees in its Medicare Advantage plans, representing almost 30% of the market share, the highest among insurers19. |
| Total Individuals Covered | UnitedHealthcare provides or manages health insurance for more than 50 million individuals19. |
| Brian Thompson’s Compensation | Brian Thompson earned $9.1 million in 2023, which includes his salary, bonus, and actual realized gains from his stocks19. |
| Brian Thompson’s Residence | The Thompson family resides in an affluent subdivision where homes are valued between $1 million and $2 million, with their property worth $1.5 million according to county records19. |
Impact on UnitedHealth Group and Investor Conference
The tragic shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson has shocked the healthcare world20. UnitedHealth Group, his company, stopped its investor conference immediately after hearing the news20. They released a statement filled with sadness and shock over the loss of their leader20.
Company’s Immediate Response
UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty spoke to employees in a video20. He talked about the huge impact Thompson’s death will have on the company20. Witty remembered Thompson’s 20 years at the company, especially his time as insurance arm leader since 202121.
The company is now dealing with big leadership and market challenges20.
Market Reactions
Wall Street is watching closely, expecting Thompson’s loss to affect the company’s image20. UnitedHealthcare, the biggest part of UnitedHealth Group, covers over 49 million Americans21. Last year, the company made $281 billion in revenue21.
Investors and industry watchers are keeping a close eye20. The loss of such a key leader could have big effects20. The search for the shooter and the ongoing investigation add to the uncertainty20.
Prior Threats and Security Concerns
The shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson has raised big questions about safety for healthcare leaders. Thompson’s wife, Paulette, said he had faced threats before because of “lack of coverage.”22 This shows UnitedHealth Group knew about threats to its leaders but didn’t protect Thompson personally22.
It’s known that no current or former UnitedHealth Group executives get regular personal security from the company22. This is different from some competitors like Humana and Cigna, which do protect their leaders22. CVS Health also has a special program for its CEO, including a driver and corporate aircraft22.
Not having a personal security team for Thompson is very worrying. The attack was seen as a “premeditated, preplanned, targeted attack.”23 This has made people wonder more about keeping healthcare leaders safe24.
The death of Brian Thompson has made the healthcare world think more about protecting its leaders24. Now, there’s more focus on keeping executives safe with services from Global Guardian and P4 Security Solutions24.
The investigation into Thompson’s death shows the healthcare industry needs to focus more on protecting its leaders23. The fact that Thompson didn’t have personal security, despite threats, is a big concern22. It highlights the need for better security for healthcare leaders22.
Community and Political Response
The tragic shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York City has caused widespread outrage and a quick political response25. The reward for information leading to the shooter’s capture has been raised to $10,000, showing the urgency to find justice25.
Statements from Officials
New York Governor Kathy Hochul quickly ordered state police to help the NYPD with the investigation. This shows the state’s dedication to accountability25. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz called Thompson’s death a “terrible loss for the business and health care community.”26 Senators and representatives from the area, like Amy Klobuchar and Dean Phillips, were shocked and offered their condolences.
Industry Reactions
The healthcare industry is deeply shaken by this tragic event, with many leaders worried about their safety25. UnitedHealth Group, the parent of UnitedHealthcare, is the biggest health insurer globally27. The loss of its CEO has sent shockwaves through the industry26. General Mills CEO Jeff Harmening, whose company is in Minnesota, also offered his condolences, showing the event’s wide impact.
As the investigation goes on, demands for accountability and more security in healthcare are getting louder. The political and community reactions to this tragic event highlight the need for quick action to prevent future incidents.
Thompson’s Legacy and Family Statement
The sudden loss of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson has deeply affected the healthcare world and those who knew him28. Thompson was known for his humility, academic and athletic prowess, and leadership roles in high school28. He was also a gifted musician, chosen for the all-state band as a trombone player28. His wife, Paulette, remembered him as a kind-hearted person who made a big impact on many lives28.
At the time of the attack29, Thompson was 50 years old, walking towards the Hilton Hotel in Manhattan for a conference29. The shooting happened early in the morning, with the shooter planning to target the CEO29. Thompson’s death is seen as both sad and tragic, leaving a gap in the healthcare industry and the lives he touched28.
Thompson’s family and colleagues have praised his remarkable leadership and contributions to UnitedHealthcare, which have left a lasting legacy in the healthcare industry.28 His passing has brought attention to the dangers and pressures faced by healthcare leaders, highlighting the need for better security and support29.
| Brian Thompson’s Achievements | Impact on UnitedHealthcare |
|---|---|
| Graduated as class president and homecoming king Excelled academically and athletically, being the top golfer in his high school Selected for the all-state band as a trombone player | Praised for his remarkable leadership and contributions to the company Leaving a lasting legacy in the healthcare industry His passing has sparked discussions about the risks and pressures faced by healthcare executives |
The loss of Brian Thompson is deeply felt by his family, colleagues, and the healthcare community28. His family’s statement describes him as “an incredibly loving, generous, talented man who truly lived life to the fullest.”28 As the UnitedHealthcare CEO, Thompson’s impact on the healthcare industry will continue to be felt, and his legacy will inspire others to strive for excellence and make a difference in the lives of those they serve2829.
Law Enforcement’s Ongoing Investigation Strategy
The New York Police Department (NYPD) is working hard to solve the tragic shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson30. They are using many surveillance cameras and new technologies to track the suspect. They are looking at if the suspect might have used the subway from the Upper West Side30.
Forensic experts are studying the evidence from the crime scene. This includes a dropped cellphone and water bottle for DNA or fingerprints30. The police are also trying to figure out why this attack happened to find the gunman30.
The NYPD is searching Central Park, where the suspect might have run after the shooting30. They are checking every inch of the park to find the person responsible for this tragedy30.
The NYPD wants the public’s help in solving this case. They are offering up to $10,000 for any information that leads to the suspect’s arrest30. They are determined to find justice for Brian Thompson and his family30.
The NYPD’s hard work and smart manhunt show their commitment to solving crimes in New York City31. As they gather more information, they are determined to catch the perpetrator. They want to give closure to the UnitedHealthcare community31.
Conclusion
The loss of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson has deeply affected the healthcare world32. As the biggest healthcare carrier in the US32, UnitedHealth Group has seen a big change. Brian Thompson, a 20-year veteran, was known for his dedication to better patient care and healthcare delivery for millions32.
The attack on him was targeted and serious33. The shooter fired many rounds at the 50-year-old executive33. This has made everyone worried about the safety of top leaders in healthcare33. The motive is still unknown, but the healthcare world has lost a leader who made a big difference32.
This event might lead to more security and awareness of risks for healthcare executives33. The loss of Brian Thompson32, a respected figure in both Wall Street and healthcare32, will affect corporate leadership and healthcare in the US32.
FAQ
What happened to Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare?
Brian Thompson, the 50-year-old CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was fatally shot. This happened outside the New York Hilton Midtown hotel in Manhattan on Wednesday morning.
Where and when did the shooting take place?
The shooting happened around 6:45 am. It was on West 54th Street between Sixth and Seventh Avenues. This is near Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan.
What was the timeline of events leading up to the shooting?
The gunman arrived at 6:40 am. He identified Thompson at 6:44 am. The shooting was at 6:45 am.
Thompson was found on the sidewalk by police at 6:48 am. He was pronounced dead at Mount Sinai West hospital at 7:12 am.
How did the gunman carry out the attack?
The gunman, dressed in black, waited for Thompson. He then approached him from behind and fired multiple times. The suspect showed skill with firearms, clearing a jam and using a 9mm pistol.
What do we know about the gunman’s escape?
After the shooting, the suspect fled on foot and then on an electric Citi Bike into Central Park. Police are using drones, K-9 teams, and analyzing surveillance footage to find him.
What was Brian Thompson’s background and role at UnitedHealthcare?
Brian Thompson became CEO of UnitedHealthcare in April 2021. He had been with UnitedHealth Group since 2004. Under him, UnitedHealthcare employed about 140,000 people.
How did UnitedHealth Group respond to the incident?
UnitedHealth Group ended its annual investor conference after the shooting. They issued a statement expressing shock and sadness. CEO Andrew Witty addressed employees in a video message.
Were there any prior threats or security concerns related to Brian Thompson?
Thompson’s wife said he had received threats about “lack of coverage.” UnitedHealth Group knew of threats against high-level executives. Thompson was not with his security detail at the time of the shooting.
How have community and political leaders responded to the incident?
New York Governor Kathy Hochul directed state police to assist NYPD. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz called it a “terrible loss.” Senator Amy Klobuchar and Representative Dean Phillips expressed shock and offered condolences.
