Threatening Voicemail Leads to Arrest in Aftermath of CEO’s Murder

A 40-year-old man from New York has been charged with cyberstalking after allegedly sending threatening messages to Paulette Thompson, the widow of Brian Thompson, the CEO of United Healthcare, just hours after his death.

Shane Daly was taken into custody on Wednesday following claims he left harassing voicemail messages directed at Paulette. These messages included derogatory comments about her late husband and made light of his murder, according to the charges that have been made public.

In one voicemail, Daly is alleged to have referred to Brian as a “capitalist pig” and lamented how he “benefited from the backs of poor Americans.”

Further into the voicemail, he expressed a disturbing satisfaction regarding Thompson’s death, saying that the family “deserves to be dead and burning in hell.”

The violence of Daly’s messages raised serious concerns. He suggested that Thompson’s children should meet a similar fate, indicating a level of animosity that is hard to comprehend.

Thompson was shot outside a hotel in Manhattan on December 4, 2024, as he was making his way to an investors meeting. A 27-year-old named Luigi Mangione has been charged with the murder, which is believed to be politically motivated.

Officials expressed outrage at Daly’s actions, stating, “It is reprehensible to threaten grieving families, especially right after the loss of a loved one. Such behavior is unacceptable, and we will pursue those who attempt to intimidate victims and their families.”

Daly now faces up to five years in prison and a potential fine of $250,000. It is important to note that he has not been linked to Thompson’s murder in any way.

His next court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart.