UnitedHealthcare CEO Killed in Targeted Shooting; Suspect Remains at Large.

UnitedHealthcare's CEO, Brian Thompson, was fatally shot in a "brazen, targeted attack" on Wednesday morning in midtown Manhattan while en route to the company's annual investor conference, as reported by NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch. The assailant remains at large. Around 7 a.m., a gunman, concealed from the cold, was reportedly "lying in wait" before opening fire on Thompson, Tisch stated. "Numerous individuals passed by the suspect, who seemed to be anticipating his specific target," she noted. "I want to emphasize that all evidence suggests this was a premeditated and deliberate attack." The assailant approached Thompson from behind, firing at least one shot into his back and another into his right calf, according to Tisch.

Emergency responders transported Thompson to Mount Sinai West in critical condition, where he was pronounced dead at 7:12 a.m. "The New York City Police Department is actively investigating this incident, and we will not cease our efforts until we locate and apprehend the shooter," Tisch added. The suspect fled the scene initially on foot and subsequently on an e-bike, with the last sighting occurring in Central Park earlier that morning, according to police. Investigators are continuing to search the area. According to a law enforcement official, the weapon used in the shooting appeared to have a silencer.

The motive behind the attack remains uncertain; however, Thompson's wife, Paulette, informed NBC News that "there had been some threats" made against her husband. "There had been some threats," she stated during a phone call with NBC News. "Essentially, I am unsure if it was due to a lack of coverage or something else. I just know that he mentioned some individuals had been threatening him," she added. The incident took place at the intersection of West 53rd Street and 6th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan.

NYPD Crime Stoppers has announced a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible.

The manager of the parking garage located across the street from the hotel stated that he was present in the garage office during the shooting and did not hear any gunfire.

Thompson was appointed as the chief executive officer of UnitedHealthcare in April 2021. UnitedHealthcare operates under UnitedHealth Group, which is recognized as the largest insurance provider in the United States and ranks among the largest corporations in the nation overall. According to the annual Fortune 500 list, UnitedHealth Group holds the position of the fourth-largest company in America based on revenue.

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On Wednesday morning, UnitedHealthcare's parent company, UnitedHealth Group, unexpectedly concluded its planned conference, citing.

“a very serious medical situation with one of our team members.”

“We are deeply saddened by this morning’s events in the area and our thoughts are with all affected by the tragedy. Additional questions should be directed to the New York Police Department,”

“We are deeply saddened and shocked at the passing of our dear friend and colleague Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare,” a statement from UnitedHealth Group said. “Brian was a highly respected colleague and friend to all who worked with him. We are working closely with the New York Police Department and ask for your patience and understanding during this difficult time. Our hearts go out to Brian’s family and all who were close to him.”

Minnesota Governor and former Vice Presidential candidate, Tim Walz, called Thompson’s death “a terrible loss for the business and health care community in Minnesota.”

“This is a horrifying and shocking act of violence. My thoughts are with Brian Thompson’s family and loved ones and all those working at United Healthcare in Minnesota,” Senator Amy Klobuchar said in a post on X Wednesday morning.

“I’m horrified by the assassination of my constituent, Brian Thompson, this morning in NYC and have his family in my prayers,” Congressman Dean Phillips, of Minnesota’s 3rd District, wrote.

UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was fatally shot in a targeted attack in midtown Manhattan while en route to an investor conference. The gunman, believed to have been lying in wait, fled the scene on an e-bike and remains at large.

The NYPD, investigating the premeditated shooting, noted that the weapon may have been equipped with a silencer. Thompson’s wife revealed he had received prior threats, but the motive is unclear. Tributes poured in from colleagues and public officials, highlighting Thompson’s impact on the healthcare industry. A reward has been offered for information leading to the arrest of the perpetrator.