On Wednesday morning, UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was assassinated outside the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan. The targeted shooting occurred just before an investors’ conference hosted by Thompson was set to begin.
According to the New York Police Department (NYPD), the masked gunman had been lying in wait outside the hotel, methodically targeting Thompson as he approached the venue. Surveillance footage shows the assassin, dressed in a black hoodie and carrying a backpack, calmly firing multiple shots at Thompson, who was struck in the torso and later pronounced dead at Mount Sinai West Hospital. Video below:
The gunman described as a white male, used a firearm with a silencer and demonstrated proficiency with the weapon, even clearing a jam during the attack. After the shooting, the suspect fled on an electric Citi Bike, heading towards Central Park. A cell phone believed to belong to the gunman was found near the scene, providing a crucial lead for investigators.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch and Chief of Detectives Joe Kenny emphasized that the attack appeared to be a targeted hit, though the motive remains unclear. “Based on the evidence we have so far, it does appear that the victim was specifically targeted,” Kenny said. “But at this point, we do not know why. This does not appear to be a random act of violence.”
Brian Thompson, a well-respected executive earning about $9.9 million annually, as per the New York Post, had been under scrutiny in a Department of Justice antitrust probe and was involved in a lawsuit accusing him of offloading company stock before the probe became public. Despite these controversies, his family and colleagues remember him as a loving and generous individual.
Paulette Thompson, Brian’s wife, expressed the family’s devastation in a statement, describing him as an “incredibly loving father” who will be greatly missed. She also mentioned to NBC News that the family had received threats, though the details remain unclear.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul condemned the attack and pledged state support for the investigation. “Our hearts are with the family and loved ones of Mr. Thompson, and we are committed to ensuring the perpetrator is brought to justice,” she said.
As the manhunt for the suspect continues, New York City Crimestoppers has offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and indictment. The NYPD urges anyone with information to come forward to help bring the assailant to justice.
