A leaked internal video by UnitedHealth Group's CEO shows him telling employees within the company that there is no benefit to speaking to the media.
Days after the shocking assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, 50, in Midtown, CEO Andrew Whitty gave an internal speech.
Footage of Whitty's remarks was shared by journalist Ken Krippenstein on his website.
“You've probably seen a lot of media attention focused on this situation due to the tremendous amount of misinformation and frankly offensive communication,” Whitty told employees, adding that Thompson It denigrated the “offensive, inappropriate and disrespectful” coverage of his murder.
“People are writing things that we don't recognize at all,” he added.
“I would like to give you a little bit of advice regarding the media,” Witty continued. “My strong advice and request to everyone is to not engage with the media. If you are approached, we recommend that you do not respond and refer them to our media organization as appropriate.”
The group's CEO also reassured employees of their safety and discussed enhanced safety measures the company has taken since Wednesday's killing.
He also called Thompson “a truly extraordinary person who impacted the lives of countless people throughout our organization and beyond.”
Thompson was shot just before 7 a.m. Wednesday outside the Midtown Hilton Hotel.
His murder was caught on surveillance camera.
Thompson was shot first in the back and stumbled to the ground, but was shot again, with at least one bullet hitting his leg.
The NYPD is investigating the possibility that the gunman left a message on the shell casing.
Officials say the masked assassin carved the words “denial,” “exile” and “defense” into the gunfire.
“Our priorities are first and foremost to support Brian's family, to ensure the safety of our employees, and to work with law enforcement to bring the perpetrators to justice,” Whitty said. added. “At UnitedHealth Group, we remain committed to the people who depend on us for their health care. We ask that you respect the privacy of this family as they mourn the loss of a husband, father, brother, and friend. I will.”
The hunt for the murderer continues. Authorities believe the gunman has already fled the area, and detectives recovered a backpack believed to belong to the assassin from Central Park on Friday.
