UnitedHealth CEO Brian Thompson Fatally Shot Outside Midtown Manhattan Hotel
The incident in bustling Midtown Manhattan has sent shockwaves through the local community and the healthcare industry. Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealth Group, was tragically killed in a shooting early Wednesday morning outside the Hilton Midtown hotel on Sixth Avenue near West 54th Street.
The tragedy unfolded shortly before 7 a.m. as Thompson, 50, reportedly arrived for a conference. According to authorities, he was shot multiple times in the chest by a gunman allegedly waiting for him. Despite being rushed to Mount Sinai West Hospital, Thompson succumbed to his injuries.
Details of the Incident
Police described the suspect as a white male wearing a cream-colored jacket, black face mask, black and white sneakers, and carrying a grey backpack. Witnesses said the shooter fled eastbound off Sixth Avenue, navigating through the Ziegfeld alleyway before escaping on a bicycle.
Law enforcement blocked off West 54th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues for hours as more than a dozen officers worked to secure the area during the busy morning commute.
Witness Accounts
One witness, who was sitting in his car at the time, described the shocking moment.
“I was looking at my phone, and I heard the shots,” he recounted. “It’s the first time I’ve seen a crime right before me. Now I fear he could shoot me too.”
Ongoing Investigation
Police believe the attack may have been targeted, though the motive remains unclear. The NYPD has urged anyone with information to call the Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or 1-888-57-PISTA (74782) for Spanish. Tips can also be submitted online, and all communications will remain confidential.
About Brian Thompson
Thompson, a seasoned leader in the healthcare industry, had been with UnitedHealth Group for 20 years. He was promoted to CEO in 2021 after leading the company’s government programs, including Medicare and Retirement. His leadership and contributions left a lasting impact on the organization and the broader healthcare sector.
The incident occurred just hours before the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting ceremony, highlighting the normally festive and bustling nature of the area.
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