In New York City, on Manhattan, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, a leading American health insurance company, was fatally shot.
Brian Thompson sustained a fatal gunshot wound around 7 a.m. near the Hilton Hotel, where he was scheduled to speak at an investor conference.
The 50-year-old was transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The suspect fled the scene, according to the New York Police Department (NYPD).
Preliminary police reports suggest Thompson was targeted. The suspect waited for him near the hotel, wearing a mask and a dark jacket.
Investigators have video footage of the attack, but it does not reveal the suspect’s motives. The attacker took nothing from the victim.
An eyewitness told Reuters that police arrived at the scene just seconds after the shooting, but the suspect has not yet been apprehended.
The attack occurred in the heart of New York City, just steps away from Central Park, Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and the Museum of Modern Art.
The suspect initially fled on foot and later used an electric bike. He was last seen in Central Park. A $10,000 reward has been offered for information about the suspect.
BBC correspondent Phil McClosland noted that despite New York’s extensive surveillance system, which includes over 18,000 cameras with facial recognition capabilities, capturing the suspect in a bustling area with heavy traffic and large crowds could be challenging.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul called the attack “horrific and deliberate.” She stated that state police have been directed to provide all necessary support to investigators to ensure the safety of New Yorkers. “Our hearts go out to Mr. Thompson’s family and loved ones, and we will ensure the perpetrator is brought to justice,” she said.
UnitedHealth Group, the parent company of UnitedHealthcare, expressed deep sorrow and shock over Thompson’s death.
Brian was deeply respected by his colleagues and friends. We are working closely with the NYPD and ask for patience and understanding during this difficult time
UnitedHealthcare said in a statement
Thompson became CEO of UnitedHealthcare in April 2021. Last year, his salary was $10.2 mn. He began his career at the company in 2004, holding various leadership roles, including overseeing government relations.
UnitedHealthcare is the largest private health insurance provider in the U.S., serving over 30 mn Americans. It is the leading provider of Medicare insurance policies and also offers corporate health plans and insurance for public sector employees. The company employs more than 440,000 people.
Following the tragic incident, the company canceled the investor conference.
