UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was fatally shot in a targeted attack outside the New York Hilton hotel in Manhattan. Security footage revealed the shooter lying in wait for several minutes before executing the brazen act as Thompson walked to a business engagement.
Brian Thompson was a respected leader in the healthcare industry, known for his nearly two-decade career with UnitedHealth Group. As CEO of UnitedHealthcare since 2021, he spearheaded critical programs leaving an indelible mark on healthcare policy and operations.
Away from the boardrooms and conferences, Thompson was a devoted husband and a proud father of two sons. His sudden and violent death is an unspeakable blow to a family already described by loved ones as tightly knit.
Details of the Premeditated Attack
The attack occurred on Wednesday morning December 4, 2024, outside the New York Hilton hotel in Midtown Manhattan. Brian was walking to UnitedHealth Group’s annual investor conference, where he was scheduled to speak.
Surveillance footage later revealed the shooter, wearing a black hoodie and gray backpack, had been standing in the area for several minutes. He ignored the morning rush of pedestrians, waiting for Brian to approach before striking.
As Brian walked down the street in a blue suit, the gunman approached from behind and fired multiple rounds. According to Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, the attack began with Brian being struck in the back and calf.After he stumbled, the shooter continued firing, moving closer to him. Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny noted that the gun appeared to malfunction briefly, but the attacker quickly cleared the jam and resumed firing.
The horrifying moments were captured on security footage, including the attack’s immediate aftermath, as Brian fell to the ground. Three live 9 mm rounds and three spent shell casings were recovered at the scene.Investigators also found a cellphone near the location, which may hold clues to the shooter’s identity. Authorities describe the attack as a “premeditated, preplanned, targeted assault.” Tisch stated, “Based on the evidence we have so far, it does appear the victim was specifically targeted, but at this point, we do not know why.”
Police Investigation and Suspect Search
The shooter fled on foot before using a rental bike to escape into Central Park. Despite using a silencer-equipped firearm, investigators have gathered a trail of evidence, including multiple surveillance recordings from the area.
Footage from a nearby Starbucks, taken minutes before the attack, provided a partial view of the gunman’s face. The New York Police Department has released several images of the suspect and is utilizing drones, K-9 units, and aviation teams in the search.Crime Stoppers has announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to the killer’s capture. Meanwhile, investigators are interviewing the Thompsons’ family, friends, and colleagues and analyzing Brian’s social media activity to uncover any potential motive.
Chief Maddrey emphasized the department’s commitment to solving the case, stating, “An incident like this happens, we don’t spare any expense.”
Unanswered Questions and Remembering Brian Thompson
As authorities continue their investigation, the motive behind Brian’s targeted killing remains unclear. Despite the wealth of evidence, including surveillance footage and forensic findings, the shooter’s identity and reasons for the attack have yet to be uncovered.
Police have vowed to leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of justice, analyzing every lead to bring closure to Brian’s family and colleagues.Brian Thompson’s influence during the nearly two decades with UnitedHealth Group is felt within the organization and the industry. As the community mourns his loss, his family, friends, and colleagues reflect on his legacy of dedication and leadership.