The CEO of United Healthcare was shot and killed in front of the New York Hilton Hotel in Manhattan this morning. United Healthcare is the country’s largest health insurer.
Late this morning, New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch and Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny briefed reporters on what was known so far in the police department’s investigation.
Tisch said that the suspect in the case ran from the scene and then boarded an electric scooter that he had apparently hidden behind the Ziegfeld Theater a short distance away from the hotel on 54th Street. It was believed that the gunman rode the scooter to Central Park.
Brian Thompson was on his way to attend a conference that the health care firm was holding at the hotel. UnitedHealthcare’s Investor Conference was scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. It appeared as if the gunman had targeted Thompson and was waiting for him to show up at the hotel.
A witness said that the gunman was wearing a mask and ran from the scene after the shooting. It was reported that the gunman was seen running past the Ziegfeld Theater on 54th Street.
Kenny confirmed that the gunman was masked. He said that the shooter appeared to be a light-skinned male, wearing a light brown or cream colored jacket, black and white sneakers and had a very distinctive gray backpack.
Police had cordoned off the crime scene and were observed marking the locations of what was believed to be evidence.
The gunman was about 20 feet away from Thompson when he opened fire and Thompson was hit. Thompson was taken to Roosevelt Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
UnitedHealth Group today issued the following statement:
“We are deeply saddened and shocked at the passing of our dear friend and colleague Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare. Brian was a highly respected colleague and friend to all who worked with him. We are working closely with the New York Police Department and ask for your patience and understanding during this difficult time. Our hearts go out to Brian’s family and all who were close to him.”
As announced in the third quarter earnings release, UnitedHealth Group 2024 net earnings are expected to be $15.50 to $15.75 per share and adjusted net earnings $27.50 to $27.75 per share.
Thompson became CEO of UnitedHealthcare in April of 2021. Thompson joined UnitedHealth Group in 2004 and has held numerous leadership positions including chief financial officer for UnitedHealthcare’s Employer & Individual, Community & State and Medicare & Retirement businesses. In addition, Thompson has served as the financial controller for UnitedHealthcare’s Employer & Individual business and a director in Corporate Development. Thompson was 50 years old.
