Brian Thompson | Source: LinkedIn.com/Brian Thompson
UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was fatally shot in what is believed to be 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.
Brian Thompson walks on the street shortly before the attack, posted on December 4, 2024 | Source: YouTube.com/NBCNews
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.
NYC Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch addresses the media about the suspected attack on UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson on December 4, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
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.
Police mark bullet casings outside the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan where Brian Thompson was shot on December 4, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
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 officers take security measures at the scene of Brian Thompson’s shooting in Midtown Manhattan, New York, on December 4, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
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.
Brian Thomspson walking on the street, posted on December 4, 2024 | Source: YouTube.com/NBCNews
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.”
Police officers take security measures after Brian Thompson is shot and killed in Midtown Manhattan, New York on December 4, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
Brian Thompson’s Family and Personal Life
Brian’s untimely death has left his family reeling from an unimaginable loss. He is survived by his wife, Paulette Thompson, 51, and their two sons. Speaking to NBC News, Paulette revealed that her husband had previously mentioned receiving threats, though he did not provide specific details.
Brian’s sister-in-law, Elena Reveiz, expressed the family’s profound sorrow, stating, “He was a good person, and I’m so sad.” She also shared that she was on her way to be with the family during this difficult time.
While Brian was a leader in the healthcare industry, he was equally dedicated to his family. His colleagues and friends have described him as a man of integrity, balancing his demanding career with his role as a husband and father.
The personal devastation felt by his family is compounded by the public attention surrounding his death. Despite the heartbreak, Paulette and their sons have remained strong, with close relatives and friends rallying around them in support.
Paulette Thompson at her birthday party | Source: Facebook
Community and Corporate Response
The news of Brian’s death sent shockwaves through UnitedHealth Group, where he had worked since 2004. He was promoted to CEO of UnitedHealthcare in April 2021, a role that allowed him to spearhead transformative healthcare initiatives.
“We are deeply saddened and shocked at the passing of our dear friend and colleague Brian Thompson,” read the company’s heartfelt statement. “Brian was a highly respected colleague and friend to all who worked with him.[..] Our hearts go out to Brian’s family and all who were close to him.”
The annual investor conference, where Brian was slated to speak, was abruptly canceled following the incident. UnitedHealth Group informed attendees that the conference could not proceed due to a “very serious medical situation” involving a team member.
The company pledged its full cooperation with law enforcement as the investigation continues. The incident has drawn significant attention online and in the healthcare community. Many colleagues, acquaintances, and industry professionals expressed their condolences and paid tribute to Brian’s leadership and character.
Many have urged anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward. Amid the sorrow, there is a growing public demand for justice, with many expressing solidarity with Brian’s grieving family.
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.
Police gather outside of a Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan where United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson was fatally shot on December 4, 2024 in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
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.
