rewrite this title Brian Thompson Shot: UnitedHealthcare CEO Killed in NYC Shooting

UnitedHealthcare’s CEO, Brian Thompson, was reportedly shot and killed while walking outside of the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan on December 4, 2024. According to multiple outlets, the executive was walking toward a company conference. The gunman was waiting for Thompson to arrive, and investigators claimed this could have been a targeted shooting. As more information comes to light about the situation, keep reading for a breakdown of what happened.

Who Was Brian Thompson?

Thompson was the CEO of UnitedHealthcare —  a popular health insurance company in the U.S. After working for United for two decades, Thompson assumed the role of CEO in 2021 and worked at the company’s Minnesota offices, according to his LinkedIn profile.

UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty described Thompson as a strong leader in a 2021 statement.

“Brian’s experience, relationships and values make him especially well-suited to help UnitedHealthcare improve how health care works for consumers, physicians, employers, governments and our other partners, leading to continued and sustained long-term growth,” Witty said in a previous statement.

What Happened to the United Healthcare CEO?

While walking outside of the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan on December 4, Thompson was shot in the chest by a gunman who was about 20 feet away, according to CNN. The perpetrator fired the gun multiple times. Thompson was promptly taken to Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, the New York Police Department reported.

Who Shot Brian Thompson?

The identity of the gunman has not been publicly revealed at the time of publication. No arrests have been made yet. However, the suspect was described as a white male, who was wearing a cream-colored jacket and a black face mask, according to The New York Post.

Why Was the UnitedHealthcare CEO Shot?

It’s unclear why Thompson was targeted. Details about the killing are still unclear while New York authorities investigate the incident.

UnitedHealth Group staff reacted to Thompson’s shooting shortly after it took place, which was the same day he was supposed to participate in the company’s investor day.

“I’m afraid that we – some of you may know we’re dealing with very serious medical situation with one of our team members,” staff members said, according to a transcript obtained by CNBC. “And as a result, I’m afraid we’re going to have to bring to a close the event today, which I’m sure you’ll understand.”