Tragic Shooting Outside Manhattan Hotel
Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was tragically shot and killed outside the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan early Wednesday morning. The shooting occurred at approximately 6:45 a.m., just before Thompson was set to speak at an investor meeting. Police confirmed that the shooter fled the scene, sparking a manhunt.
Police Confirm Targeted Attack
Law enforcement officials have indicated that the shooting was not random. New York City Mayor Eric Adams stated, “It appears as though this was a targeted murder.” Authorities have yet to publicly release the name of the victim, but sources close to the investigation confirmed Thompson’s identity. Despite immediate medical attention, Thompson was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital
UnitedHealthcare Investor Conference Abruptly Canceled
The annual UnitedHealthcare investor conference, which was scheduled for the day, was abruptly canceled following the tragic incident. The event, meant to update Wall Street on the company’s direction for the upcoming year, was halted after news of Thompson’s death broke. Attendees were informed early Wednesday morning that the conference would not continue.
A Busy Manhattan Location
The shooting took place in a bustling area of Manhattan, near popular tourist attractions such as the Museum of Modern Art and Rockefeller Center, which is hosting its annual Christmas Tree lighting event later today. Parts of the block where the shooting occurred were cordoned off with police tape as investigators worked the scene. Multiple nearby security cameras may help authorities track the shooter.
Thompson’s Longstanding Career with UnitedHealthcare
Thompson had been with UnitedHealthcare since 2004, serving as the company’s CEO for over three years. Under his leadership, UnitedHealthcare became the largest provider of Medicare Advantage plans in the U.S., managing health insurance coverage for millions of Americans. Thompson was widely respected in the business and healthcare communities for his vision and leadership.
Condolences from Minnesota’s Governor
Following the shocking news, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz expressed his condolences. In a tweet, he called the incident “horrifying” and extended his prayers to Thompson’s family and the UnitedHealthcare team. “This is a terrible loss for the business and healthcare community in Minnesota,” Walz wrote.
Ongoing Investigation
Police have begun an active investigation into the shooting, urging anyone with information to come forward. Authorities are working to gather evidence from security footage and other sources in hopes of tracking down the shooter.
Stay tuned as more details emerge.
