The New York Police Department is conducting a citywide manhunt for the gunman who fatally shot UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in what officials are calling a "brazen, targeted attack." The assailant remains at large following the Wednesday morning killing, which occurred outside the Hilton Midtown hotel in Manhattan, where Thompson was set to attend the company's annual investor conference.
"This does not appear to be a random act of violence," NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated during a press briefing. Surveillance footage reveals the masked suspect lying in wait for Thompson before shooting him multiple times as he approached the hotel. "Every indication is that this was a premeditated, preplanned, targeted attack."
Thompson, 50, was struck at least once in the back and once in the calf. He was transported to Mount Sinai West in critical condition but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The shooter fled the scene on foot before using an e-bike to escape into Central Park. Authorities are offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the capture of the gunman.
Investigators are piecing together evidence from the crime scene and nearby surveillance footage. Shell casings recovered from the scene bore the words "deny," "defend," and "depose" - chilling inscriptions that may point to grievances against the health insurance industry. Thompson's widow, Paulette, confirmed her husband had received threats tied to his work. "There had been some threats... involving issues with a lack of coverage," she told NBC News.
Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare since 2021, led the nation's largest health insurance provider during a period of intense scrutiny over its business practices. Under his leadership, the company faced lawsuits alleging wrongful denial of claims and the use of faulty algorithms to make life-altering coverage decisions. Critics have long accused UnitedHealthcare of prioritizing profits over patient care, a sentiment reflected in dark online reactions to his death.
Despite the controversies surrounding his company, Thompson was described by colleagues and family as a loving father and committed professional. His wife said he was "an incredibly loving, generous, talented man who truly lived life to the fullest and touched so many lives."
Police are focusing their search on evidence left by the suspect. A phone and water bottle believed to belong to the gunman were discovered in an alleyway nearby. Investigators are hoping these items will yield fingerprints, DNA, or digital clues. Surveillance footage also shows the assailant purchasing water and energy bars at a café shortly before the attack, offering a partial glimpse of his face.
The killing has left UnitedHealth Group and its employees in shock. The company suspended its investor conference following the shooting, and flags at its Minnesota headquarters were lowered to half-staff. UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty described the loss as a "terrible tragedy" and praised Thompson as "a truly extraordinary person."
Officials from New York and Minnesota have condemned the act and expressed condolences to Thompson's family. "This is a horrifying and shocking act of violence," Minnesota Governor Tim Walz said. "My thoughts are with Brian Thompson's family and loved ones."
As the investigation unfolds, the NYPD continues to follow leads while urging the public to come forward with any information. The murder, which occurred just blocks from Rockefeller Center's tree-lighting ceremony, has heightened concerns about public safety in Midtown Manhattan.
