Brian Thompson, aged 50, was fatally shot outside a Manhattan hotel on Wednesday morning, according to officials from the NYPD. The victim, identified as the CEO of UnitedHealth’s insurance unit, was targeted in what police described as a premeditated attack. The incident took place outside the Hilton building on Sixth Avenue, where the company’s annual investor conference was scheduled to occur. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, Thompson succumbed to his injuries, and the perpetrator remains at large.
During a press conference, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed the targeted nature of the attack, emphasizing that it was not a random act of violence. The suspect, described as a light-skinned male in a cream-colored jacket, followed Thompson to the hotel where he shot him in the back and leg before fleeing the scene. The police have not yet made any arrests or identified a suspect in the case.
Thompson’s wife, Paulette Thompson, revealed to NBC News that her husband had been receiving threats leading up to the attack. She expressed shock and grief over the incident, stating that she was trying to console their children. Elected officials in Minnesota, where UnitedHealth Group is headquartered, also expressed their condolences and concerns about the targeted nature of the crime.
UnitedHealth Group issued a statement mourning the loss of Brian Thompson, describing him as a highly respected colleague and friend. The company is cooperating with law enforcement in their investigation and extending support to Thompson’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. Thompson was scheduled to attend the conference.
“We’re dealing with a very serious medical situation with one of our team members, and as a result, I’m afraid we’re going to have to bring to a close the event today,” UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty said.
Thompson was appointed as the CEO of UnitedHealthcare in April 2021, having been with the company since 2004. He previously held the position of chief of Medicare and Medicaid services.
UnitedHealthcare is the largest health insurance company in the United States and is recognized as one of the largest corporations globally.
*Reuters contributed to this report*
Source link
