Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was shot and killed in a suspected targeted attack outside the New York Hilton Midtown this morning, as confirmed by the New York Police Department. Thompson was 50 years old and had been with the health insurance company since 2004, ascending to the role of CEO in April 2021. The incident, which unfolded at approximately 6:46 a.m. in front of 1335 Sixth Ave., interrupted the company's scheduled investor day, as reported by Crain's New York.
The details surrounding the fatal shooting remain scant, but early indications suggest the perpetrator was lying in wait for Thompson, attacking from a distance of about 20 feet and then escaping on foot, the police informed. Thompson was swiftly taken to Roosevelt Hospital, though his life could not be saved. A suspect has yet to be apprehended, and, the NYPD's investigation continues. According to a CNBC report, the suspect was described as a white male dressed in a black hoodie, black pants, and black sneakers with white trim, accessorized with a gray backpack, and allegedly used a firearm fitted with a silencer.
In response to the tragedy, UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty addressed the investor gathering with the sobering acknowledgment of the day's grim turn of events. “I’m afraid that we – some of you may know we’re dealing with very serious medical situation with one of our team members,” Witty stated, “And as a result, I’m afraid we’re going to have to bring to a close the event today, which I’m sure you’ll understand,” as obtained by CNBC. The company subsequently canceled the investor day at the Hilton after news of the shooting broke.
Locals in the vicinity of the hotel were caught unaware of the unfolding violence. A hot dog vendor, stationed near the Hilton at the time of the shooting, reported not hearing any gunshots, only noticing the precipitous arrival of law enforcement at the scene. Furthermore, a doorman starting his shift post the incident remarked on the seemingly normal conditions at the hotel entrance. Both individuals requested anonymity when sharing their observations. Shares of UnitedHealth Group experienced an uptick of over 1% on Wednesday, despite the morning's grim events, hinting at the often cold calculus of the market undisturbed by personal tragedy. UnitedHealthcare, the nation’s largest private insurer, covers approximately 53 million individuals and in 2023 reported revenue of $281 billion, a Crain's New York article details.
