In a shocking and targeted attack, Brian Thompson, United Healthcare CEO, was fatally shot on Wednesday morning outside the Hilton hotel in Midtown Manhattan. Authorities described the incident as premeditated and deliberate, sparking an intense manhunt across New York City.

The Incident

Thompson, 50, was ambushed around 6:45 a.m. as he approached the hotel on Sixth Avenue, just before UnitedHealth’s annual investor conference. Surveillance footage reveals the assailant waiting near the scene, ignoring other passersby before shooting Thompson in the back and leg. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, he was pronounced dead shortly after.

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch called the attack “brazen and targeted,” emphasizing that it was not random. Authorities are actively investigating the motive behind the killing.

The gunman, described as a man wearing a hooded coat, a mask, and carrying a distinctive gray backpack, fled the scene on an electric Citi Bike. He was last spotted entering Central Park.

Surveillance and Eyewitness Accounts

Video evidence from nearby cameras shows the shooter calmly waiting in the vicinity for at least 10 minutes before the attack. Additional footage captured him inside a nearby Starbucks, suggesting meticulous planning.

During the attack, the gunman’s pistol reportedly jammed. Despite this, he managed to clear the malfunction and continue firing before fleeing. Police recovered three shell casings at the scene and noted that the weapon may have been equipped with a silencer, though this detail is still under review.

Family and Company Reactions

Paulette Thompson, Brian’s wife, revealed that her husband had recently received threats, although she was unclear about their specifics. “I don’t know the details, but he mentioned some people had been threatening him,” she said, expressing her shock and grief.

UnitedHealth Group, in a statement, shared its devastation: “We are deeply saddened and shocked by Brian’s death. Our hearts go out to his family and everyone who knew him.” The company canceled its investor meeting following the tragic news.

Brian Thompson’s Legacy

Brian Thompson joined UnitedHealth in 2004 and became CEO of UnitedHealthcare, the insurance arm of the company, in April 2021. Over his tenure, he oversaw significant growth and managed a division providing healthcare coverage to tens of millions of Americans.

Under his leadership, UnitedHealthcare became the largest provider of Medicare Advantage plans. Thompson also spearheaded initiatives aimed at reshaping healthcare delivery, focusing on value-based care and improving patient outcomes.

Despite his professional successes, Thompson faced challenges. His company was recently embroiled in federal investigations concerning claims denials and data breaches, including a cyberattack impacting over 100 million Americans.

Public and Industry Shock

News of Thompson’s death sent shockwaves through the healthcare industry. Colleagues and industry leaders described him as an innovative and dedicated leader. Michael Ha, an investment analyst present at the Hilton for the investor meeting, recalled the somber atmosphere: “People were frightened and confused. It was a tragic and surreal experience.”

Eli Lilly CEO Dave Ricks expressed his sorrow, calling the incident “shocking” and stating that Thompson was “essentially assassinated in the street.”

Broader Implications

The attack occurred just hours before the annual Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting, a high-profile event mere blocks away from the crime scene. Despite the tragedy, city officials assured the public of enhanced security measures, allowing the celebration to proceed as planned.

The incident also underscores growing concerns about safety in public spaces, particularly in bustling areas like Midtown Manhattan. While the city’s homicide rate has declined in 2024 compared to recent years, such targeted acts of violence remain alarming.

Ongoing Investigation

Law enforcement officials continue to investigate the case, focusing on the threats Thompson reportedly received. Authorities are also examining his professional dealings and potential motives tied to his role as CEO of one of the nation’s largest health insurers.

As the NYPD intensifies its search for the perpetrator, the city mourns the loss of a respected leader whose contributions to healthcare touched millions.