Brian Thompson: United Healthcare CEO fatally shot outside Manhattan hotel

The CEO of UnitedHealthcare, a major medical insurance company in the US, was shot and killed in New York City. Authorities are calling it a bold and deliberate assault.

Brian Thompson was tragically shot in the back shortly before 7:00 AM EST (12:00 PM GMT) on Wednesday. The incident occurred outside the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan, where he was set to deliver a talk at an investor conference later that day.

Officials reported that the 50-year-old man, who had also sustained a gunshot wound to the leg, was transported to the hospital but was declared dead just minutes after the incident.

A suspect wearing a mask escaped the area and is still on the run, prompting the police to announce a $10,000 (£7,800) reward for information leading to their capture.

At a press conference, New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated, "All signs suggest that this was a deliberate and planned assault aimed at a specific target."

According to the police, the individual wearing a white face mask and a light-colored jacket seemed to stand outside the hotel for about five minutes, apparently waiting for Thompson.

As Thompson reached the Hilton, the gunman emerged from behind a vehicle and fired at him from back.

According to police sources, the victim had been staying at a different hotel, the Marriott, located nearby.

According to Commissioner Tisch, the suspect initially ran away on foot, then took an e-bike and made his way toward Central Park, where he was last observed.

Authorities mentioned they were unsure about the suspect's reasons for the incident. They also stated that Thompson’s possessions remained untouched.

Paulette Thompson, the victim's wife, told NBC News during a phone conversation that her husband had been targeted with threats.

"There were a few threats," she explained. "Essentially, I'm not sure, but it seems like there might have been issues with [medical] coverage? I'm not clear on the specifics."

"I only know that he mentioned there were a few individuals who had been making threats against him."

Mrs. Thompson said, "I can't provide a meaningful answer at the moment. I just learned about this, and I'm focused on comforting my kids."

New York Governor Kathy Hochul reported that the police had informed her about the "terrible and deliberate" shooting incident.

"We stand in solidarity with Mr. Thompson's family and loved ones, and we are dedicated to making sure that the person responsible faces justice," she expressed in a statement.

UnitedHealth Group, the parent company of UnitedHealthcare, expressed that they are "very saddened and stunned by the loss of our beloved friend and coworker."

The team issued a statement saying, "Brian was a valued colleague and a friend to everyone who had the pleasure of working alongside him."

"We are collaborating closely with the New York Police Department and appreciate your patience and understanding during this challenging period."

Thompson took on the role of CEO of UnitedHealthcare in April 2021. Last year, he received a total compensation of $10.2 million.

He joined the health insurance company in 2004 and has taken on various leadership positions, including serving as the CEO of the division that manages government programs.

UnitedHealthcare holds the title of the biggest private insurance provider in the United States.

The parent organization, UnitedHealth Group, called off its investor conference following the shooting incident.

"We are facing a major health crisis," stated Andrew Witty, the CEO of UnitedHealth Group, during the event.

A representative from Hilton Hotels expressed their profound sorrow regarding the incidents that occurred in the area earlier today, stating that their thoughts are with everyone impacted by this unfortunate situation.

The lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree was scheduled for Wednesday night, just a short distance from the site of the crime.

Officials have confirmed that the event will still take place, but there will be a significant number of police officers present.