In a chilling turn of events, the NYPD have released surveillance images of the masked assailant who fatally shot United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Manhattan. The mastermind behind the brazen attack remains at large, prompting an urgent citywide manhunt. Thompson, who headed America’s largest health insurance company, was preparing to unveil the firm’s lucrative 2025 financial outlook when murder cut his life short.
The fatal shooting occurred around 6:45am outside the Hilton Hotel, where Thompson was due to speak at an investor meeting. Witnesses claim the masked gunman seemed to anticipate Thompson’s movements, waiting outside the specific door through which the CEO emerged before shooting him at point-blank range. NYPD officers attempted lifesaving measures at the scene, but Thompson was later pronounced dead at Mount Sinai Hospital.
@abcnews NEW: ABC News has obtained new images showing the suspect in the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. ABC News contributor and former NYPD Chief of Detectives Robert Boyce has the next steps in the investigation for the gunman. #crime #newyork #gunviolence #news #abcnews ♬ original sound – ABC News
Thompson, who was named UnitedHealthcare CEO in 2021, lived in Minnesota with his wife and two children. Despite facing a Department of Justice investigation for antitrust violations and accusations of insider trading, Thompson was set to announce United Healthcare’s promising 2025 financial outlook, predicting revenues upwards of $450 billion.
The NYPD has released two images showing the gunman in action and making his escape on a bicycle. The assailant is described as a white male wearing a cream-colored jacket, black face mask, black and white sneakers, and carrying a grey backpack.
Thompson’s wife, Paulette, revealed he had been receiving threats prior to his trip to New York. She told NBC News that she didn’t know specifics but was aware of some individuals threatening her husband. This adds another dimension to the ongoing investigation as authorities urgently search for the killer.
In the wake of this tragedy, UnitedHealthcare’s annual investor conference went on as scheduled until news of Thompson’s death began circulating. Andrew Witty, CEO of parent company United Healthgroup, halted the meeting just after 8am upon hearing about the event.
United Healthcare, the largest health insurer in America by market share, has faced frequent protests by activists accusing the company of systematically denying patient care. Despite these issues and a costly cyber-attack earlier this year, United Healthcare remains a dominant player in the health insurance market.
Minnesota leaders have expressed their shock and grief over Thompson’s death. Governor Tim Walz described it as “horrifying news and a terrible loss for the business and healthcare community in Minnesota”. The company also released a statement expressing their deep sadness and shock at the news.
As the manhunt continues, the NYPD is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the killer’s capture. The tragedy has led to heightened security in Midtown Manhattan, with several blocks shut down as large crowds gather for the annual Christmas tree lighting at Rockefeller Center.
Thompson’s death is a shocking event that sends ripples through both the healthcare and business communities. As the CEO of the largest health insurance company in the U.S., his role was pivotal in shaping healthcare policies and practices. His slated announcement about United Healthcare’s bullish 2025 financial outlook underscores the significant influence he wielded in the industry.
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