Unidentified Gunman Kills UnitedHealthcare CEO in Manhattan

By John Miller, Amanda Musa, Rebekah Riess, David Goldman and Brynn Gingras of CNN

A brazen and targeted attack on Wednesday morning in Midtown Manhattan resulted in the fatal shooting of Brian Thompson, the chief executive officer of UnitedHealthcare, according to New York police. The incident has sent shockwaves through the business community, with numerous leaders and politicians paying tribute to the fallen CEO.

The Shooting

Thompson was shot at least once in the back and once in the right calf by a gunman who approached him from behind. The suspect, who is still unidentified, fled the scene on foot before boarding an e-bike and was last seen in Central Park. Responding emergency workers took Thompson to Mount Sinai West, where he was pronounced dead at 7:12 am local time.

According to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, many people passed the suspect but he appeared to be waiting for his intended target. The motive for the shooting remains unclear, and the investigation is ongoing.

Reaction from UnitedHealthcare

UnitedHealth Group abruptly ended its scheduled conference on Wednesday morning, citing “a very serious medical situation with one of our team members.” Flags were later lowered to half-staff at the company’s headquarters in Minnetonka, Minnesota. In a video message, CEO Andrew Witty described Thompson as “a truly extraordinary person” who touched the lives of countless people throughout the organization and beyond.

“His passing is a terrible tragedy and I know we are in shock and disbelief,” Witty said. “We are deeply saddened and shocked at the loss of our dear friend and colleague Brian Thompson.”

Political Reactions

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz described Thompson’s death as “a terrible loss for the business and health care community in Minnesota.” Senator Amy Klobuchar called the assassination of her constituent “horrifying and shocking,” while Congressman Dean Phillips expressed his condolences to Thompson’s family.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul directed state police to provide NYPD with any necessary assistance with the investigation, ensuring the safety of all New Yorkers. The NYPD Crime Stoppers has announced a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible for Thompson’s death.

Tributes from Leaders

Thompson was named CEO of UnitedHealthcare in April 2021. He touched the lives of countless people throughout his career, and his legacy will be remembered by those who knew him.

“Brian was an incredibly loving, generous, talented man who truly lived life to the fullest and touched so many lives,” said Thompson’s wife, in a statement to CNN. “Most importantly, Brian was an incredibly loving father to our two sons and will be greatly missed.”

As the investigation into Thompson’s death continues, the business community remains in shock, with numerous leaders and politicians paying tribute to the fallen CEO.

In conclusion, the shooting of Brian Thompson is a senseless act of violence that has left the business community reeling. Our thoughts are with Thompson’s family, loved ones, and all those affected by this tragedy.