The CEO of United Healthcare, one of the largest health insurance companies in the United States, was reportedly shot in the chest and killed in midtown Manhattan on Wednesday. multiple report.
Brian Thompson, 50, was shot outside the Hilton Hotel at 1335 Americas Ave. just after 6:45 a.m. after arriving early for UnitedHealthcare's annual investor conference. It has been reported. The paper said a masked man approached and fired repeatedly. new york post.
Police told the Guardian that when police arrived, the victim was unconscious with a gunshot wound to the chest. He was taken to Mount Sinai Hospital in critical condition, where he was later pronounced dead.
According to police, new york times They say they believe Thompson was the target of the attack. The newspaper also noted that the gunman reportedly knew which door Thompson was trying to enter and shot him several times from just a few feet away before fleeing.
UnitedHealthcare did not immediately respond to a request for comment from the Guardian.
United Health Group is scheduled to host The company's annual investor conference for analysts and institutional investors will be held on Wednesday at 8 a.m. local time in New York City.
A spokesperson for the New York Hilton Midtown told the Guardian in a statement: “We are deeply saddened by the events that occurred this morning in our area and our hearts go out to everyone affected by this tragedy.” He directed further questions to the New York Police Department.
Officials said no arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing.
The newspaper said police were searching for the gunman, who fled the scene on foot, then jumped on a bicycle and left. new york times. The suspect was reportedly wearing a cream-colored jacket, a black mask and a gray backpack.
Amal Abdelmulla, a driver who witnessed the incident, said: ABC News He heard “gunshots” and added, “It's a silent gun, a black gun.” He said he saw the gunman running across the street and tried to take a photo, but he was too far away.
“I was shocked,” Abdelmullah said. He said he was also afraid of being shot, adding: “I saw everything.”
Thompson was appointed CEO of UnitedHealthcare in April 2021, according to the company. company. Prior to this role, he served as CEO of UnitedHealthcare Government Programs, including Health Care and Retirement, Community and State. Prior to leading government programs, Thompson served as CEO of UnitedHealthcare's Medicare and Retirement division.
Ms. Thompson, who lives in Minnesota, joined UnitedHealth Group in 2004.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz called shooting “This is terrible news and a terrible loss for Minnesota's business and health care communities,” it said in a statement Wednesday.
“The state of Minnesota is sending Brian's family and UnitedHealthcare team our prayers,” Walz added.
