The city of New York is in shock as police continue their search for the suspect in the shooting death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The 50-year-old was attacked by a gunman while walking on a sidewalk to the company’s annual investor conference at a Hilton hotel in midtown Manhattan on Wednesday morning.
Multiple surveillance cameras captured the tragic incident, with one video showing Thompson walking on the sidewalk before a figure wearing a hooded jacket, dark glasses, and a backpack steps out from behind a parked vehicle. The suspect then raises a handgun with a silencer attached and fires multiple shots at Thompson, who was pronounced dead upon arrival at a local hospital.
The gunman was caught on camera fleeing the scene on an e-bike and heading into Central Park. Police are now investigating whether the vehicle was an unmarked e-bike or one from the city’s Citi Bike share system.
During a press conference, New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch revealed that the words “Deny,” “Defend,” and “Depose” were printed on the shell casings found at the scene. Some analysts believe these words may be a reference to insurance companies’ strategies to avoid paying claims.
While it is clear that the attack on Thompson was premeditated, the motive behind it remains unclear. Commissioner Tisch stated that the suspect waited for several minutes for Thompson and had some prior firearms training.
Thompson had been with Minneapolis-based UnitedHealthcare since 2004 and served as CEO for over three years. The company, which offers insurance to companies and individuals, has a market valuation of $560 billion, making it one of the largest publicly traded companies in the country.
According to reports, UnitedHealthcare has been under scrutiny from lawmakers and regulators for systematically refusing to authorize healthcare procedures and treatments. In October, the U.S. Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations released a report documenting insurance companies’ denial of care for older people who had suffered strokes or medical emergencies.
UnitedHealthcare, in particular, was cited for a significant increase in denials for post-acute care, rising from 10.9% in 2020 to 22.7% in 2022.
Thompson’s wife, Paulette, revealed to U.S. broadcaster NBC News that her husband had received death threats. This tragic incident has left the entire company and community in shock and mourning.
Brian Thompson was not just a successful businessman but also a beloved husband, father, and friend. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Our hearts go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
The Associated Press contributed to this report, and the investigation into this senseless act of violence is ongoing. The New York City police are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in bringing justice for Brian Thompson and his family.
In the wake of this tragedy, we must come together as a community and stand against violence of any kind. Let us remember Brian Thompson for his contributions to the healthcare industry and his dedication to improving the lives of others. May his legacy continue to inspire us to make the world a better place.
