UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson tragically lost his life in a targeted shooting outside a Manhattan hotel on Wednesday morning. The incident occurred at approximately 6:46 a.m. ET outside the New York Hilton Midtown, just minutes before a significant investor conference associated with UnitedHealthcare’s parent company was scheduled to start.
Thompson, 50, was attending the conference, which has since been canceled following this shocking event. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. New York police are actively investigating the incident, describing it as a “brazen, targeted attack.” A suspect is currently being sought, with authorities indicating that the attack appeared premeditated given the gunman’s behavior prior to the incident.
Thompson, who had been CEO of UnitedHealthcare since April 2021, was a respected leader in the healthcare industry, known for his commitment to improving healthcare access and efficiency. UnitedHealthcare is an essential part of UnitedHealth Group, the largest private health insurer in the U.S., employing approximately 440,000 people globally. This company has recently faced scrutiny from the U.S. Justice Department due to a proposed acquisition of rival healthcare firms.
Charles Andrew Witty, the CEO of UnitedHealth Group, praised Thompson’s professionalism and dedication, emphasizing that his values and relationships were instrumental in fostering growth and better healthcare relationships. Before becoming CEO, Thompson held several executive roles within UnitedHealthcare, including overseeing government programs like Medicare.
Thompson leaves behind his wife, Paulette, and their two children. His family and friends remember him fondly as a devoted father and an exemplary individual. His wife revealed that Thompson had been receiving threats prior to the incident, although the exact motivation behind the attack remains unclear at this time.
In the wake of this tragedy, numerous colleagues and public officials from Minnesota expressed their condolences and shared memories of Thompson, emphasizing his work ethic, humility, and leadership qualities. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz described the event as a significant loss to the business and healthcare communities in the state.
This shocking event serves as a reminder of the increasing concerns regarding safety and threats facing public figures in today’s environment. It underscores the importance of mental health support and personal safety measures in high-stress roles, especially in leadership positions.
In this challenging time, it is crucial for communities and organizations to come together to support Thompson’s family and to prioritize discussions around safety and mental well-being in the workplace.