(New York, N.Y.) — Brian Thompson, the 50-year-old CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was fatally shot Wednesday morning outside the New York Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan in what police are calling a “premeditated, targeted attack.”
The incident occurred around 6:45 a.m., when a masked gunman opened fire, striking Thompson in the back and leg, according to the New York Police Department (NYPD). The suspect fled the scene on foot before escaping on an e-bike, last seen heading into Central Park.
Thompson was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Authorities believe the suspect had been lying in wait, arriving at the scene five minutes before Thompson, according to surveillance footage.
The CEO was visiting New York from Minnesota to attend UnitedHealthcare’s annual investors’ meeting, which was scheduled for 8 a.m. but was canceled after the shooting. Thompson had arrived in the city on Monday.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul condemned the attack, calling it a “horrific and targeted shooting.” The motive remains unknown, but police confirmed the attack was preplanned.
The NYPD has launched a full investigation and is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the suspect’s arrest. The gunman is described as wearing a light-brown or cream-colored sweatshirt, a black ski mask, and carrying a gray backpack.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact law enforcement immediately.
