UnitedHealth Mourns the Tragic Death of CEO Brian Thompson

UnitedHealth expressed deep sorrow following the tragic death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in a statement released Wednesday afternoon.

“We are devastated and shocked by the loss of our dear friend and colleague,” the company stated. “Brian was highly respected and cherished by all who had the privilege of working with him. We are collaborating with the New York Police Department and ask for patience as we navigate this incredibly difficult time.”

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Details of the Incident: Thompson, 50, was fatally shot Wednesday morning outside a Hilton hotel in midtown Manhattan, just before the start of UnitedHealth’s annual investor conference. According to reports from the New York Post and Bloomberg, a masked assailant, seemingly waiting for Thompson, fired multiple shots at the executive around 6:40 a.m. ET. Thompson was struck in the chest and rushed to Mt. Sinai hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

The New York Police Department confirmed the shooting but has yet to officially identify Thompson as the victim, pending family notification. The investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made at this time.

Impact on UnitedHealth: Despite the tragedy, UnitedHealth proceeded with its investor conference, which was abruptly cut short at around 9:10 a.m. ET. CEO Andrew Witty informed attendees, “We are facing a very serious medical situation involving one of our team members, and as such, we must conclude today’s event.”

Thompson had been with UnitedHealth since 2004, holding various leadership positions, including CEO of UnitedHealthcare’s government programs. He became CEO of UnitedHealthcare in April 2021, overseeing one of the largest private insurers in the U.S.

UnitedHealth has not commented further on the incident at this time.