Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was fatally shot in midtown Manhattan on Wednesday morning. The 50-year-old executive was attacked outside the Hilton Hotel shortly after 6:45 a.m. Thompson had arrived early for UnitedHealthcare’s annual investor conference when a masked gunman approached and shot him multiple times.

Emergency responders transported Thompson to the hospital, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Police believe the attack was targeted, as the gunman reportedly knew which door Thompson would use.

Details of the Shooting

Witnesses reported that the suspect fired at close range before fleeing the scene on foot. The assailant later escaped by bicycle. The shooter was described as wearing a cream-colored jacket, a black face mask, and a gray backpack.

Authorities have not made any arrests and continue to search for the suspect. The New York Police Department has asked the public for help in identifying the gunman.

The Hilton Hotel released a statement expressing sorrow and offering condolences to those affected by the tragedy.

Thompson’s Career and Legacy

Brian Thompson became CEO of UnitedHealthcare in April 2021. He led one of the largest health insurers in the United States. Thompson joined UnitedHealth Group in 2004 and held several leadership roles before becoming CEO. He oversaw Medicare and retirement programs as well as community and state services within the company.

Thompson lived in Minnesota, where he was a respected leader in the business and healthcare sectors. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz called the shooting “horrifying news and a terrible loss” in a public statement. Walz expressed condolences to Thompson’s family and the UnitedHealthcare team.

UnitedHealthcare had planned its annual investor conference to begin at 8:00 a.m. the same morning. The company has not yet commented on the incident.

Police continue their investigation into the shooting and have urged anyone with information to come forward.