UnitedHealth Insurance Division CEO Fatally Shot in Targeted Attack Outside NYC Hotel

 

Brian Thompson, the 50-year-old CEO of UnitedHealth’s insurance division, was fatally shot in a "brazen, targeted" attack outside the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan on Wednesday morning, according to the NYPD.

Thompson was approached by a masked gunman at approximately 6:46 a.m. as he walked to the hotel, where UnitedHealth Group was holding its investors’ conference. The suspect opened fire, hitting Thompson in the torso. Bystanders watched as first responders attempted CPR at the scene before rushing him to Roosevelt Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 7:12 a.m.

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch described the incident as premeditated. Surveillance footage revealed the suspect waiting near the hotel for several minutes before targeting Thompson. Witnesses reported seeing the gunman loitering near the area moments before the attack.

NYPD Chief of Detectives Joe Kenny provided chilling details of the shooting:

"The shooter approached Thompson from behind, ignored other pedestrians, and shot him in the back before continuing to fire. When the weapon malfunctioned, the suspect swiftly cleared it and resumed shooting, demonstrating proficiency with firearms."

The gunman, described as a white male wearing a dark jacket, a black face mask, black-and-white sneakers, and carrying a gray backpack, fled the scene on an electric Citi Bike. He was last seen entering Central Park around 6:48 a.m.

At the scene, police recovered three discharged shell casings and three live 9-millimeter rounds. Authorities have yet to determine a motive, but Kenny confirmed that the evidence suggests Thompson was specifically targeted.

A $10,000 reward has been offered by the NYPD and CrimeStoppers for information leading to the suspect’s arrest.

Thompson’s wife, Paulette "Pauley" Thompson, revealed to NBC News that the family had received prior threats, though it remains unclear whether these are connected to the attack. Thompson leaves behind his wife and their two children, who reside in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The targeted nature of the shooting and its occurrence in a busy part of Manhattan during daylight hours have left many shocked. Authorities are continuing their investigation, urging anyone with information to come forward.