Gunman at large after United Healthcare CEO fatally shot in brazen targeted attack

The fatal shooting of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson was a brazen, targeted attack. The gunman was lying in wait for several minutes as he anticipated his intended target. Investigative efforts of the New York Police Department (NYPD) are well underway, and they will not rest until they identify and apprehend the shooter. NYPD Crime Stoppers has announced a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible.

Thompson was shot and killed in midtown Manhattan Wednesday morning in an apparent targeted attack as he was about to attend United Healthcare’s annual investor conference. The gunman remains on the loose. Thompson was walking toward the New York Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan, dressed in a suit and tie, to attend United Healthcare’s annual investor conference being held in the ballroom.

A gunman, masked in the freezing temperatures, waited for about 10 minutes before Thompson’s arrival and opened fire multiple times, striking Thompson from about 20 feet away. The gunman fled, cutting through an alleyway and hopping on to a bicycle. Investigators are continuing to canvas the area. Police currently believe that the suspect fled into Central Park.

The shooting happened in Midtown Manhattan, at West 53rd Street and 6th Avenue. The suspect shot Thompson with what appeared to be a silencer. New York Hilton Midtown is deeply saddened by the events in the area and its thoughts are with all affected by the tragedy. Thompson was not a registered guest at New York Hilton Midtown. Details on the circumstances are not immediately clear, but investigators say it appears to be a targeted shooting.

No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing. Police are expected to provide a briefing on the incident.

Thompson was named chief executive officer for United Healthcare in April 2021.

United Healthcare is part of United Health Group, America’s largest insurance company and one of the country’s biggest companies. United Health Group is the fourth-largest company in America as ranked by revenue. United Health Group abruptly ended its scheduled conference Wednesday morning, citing a very serious medical situation with one of its team members.

United Health Group is deeply saddened and shocked at the passing of its CEO, Thompson. Thompson was a highly respected colleague and friend to all who worked with him. United Health Group is working closely with the NYPD. Minnesota Governor and former Vice Presidential candidate, Tim Walz, called Thompson’s death a terrible loss for the business and healthcare community in Minnesota.

This is a horrifying and shocking act of violence. Congressman Dean Phillips of Minnesota’s 3rd District was horrified by the assassination of Thompson.