CEO’s Fatal Shooting Sparks Manhunt in Midtown Manhattan

In a tragic incident that has left the business and healthcare communities in shock, Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was fatally shot outside the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan. The shooting took place on a Wednesday morning, just before Thompson was scheduled to attend the annual UnitedHealthcare investors meeting.

Authorities are currently conducting an intensive manhunt, as the suspect remains at large. According to sources, Thompson was shot in the chest and leg, indicating that this was not a random act of violence.

Thompson is survived by his wife, Paulette ‘Pauley’ Thompson, and their two children. The family resided in Maple Grove, Minnesota, in a home valued at $1.5 million.

The New York City Police Department has issued a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. Surveillance images released by the police depict the suspect in a hooded sweatshirt and a light-colored backpack, brandishing a gun outside the hotel before fleeing on a bicycle.

“We are deeply saddened and shocked at the passing of our dear friend and colleague Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare,” the company stated. “Brian was a highly respected colleague and friend to all who worked with him. We are working closely with the New York Police Department and ask for your patience and understanding during this difficult time. Our hearts go out to Brian’s family and all who were close to him.”

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz expressed his condolences, describing the news as “horrifying” and a “terrible loss for the business and health care community in Minnesota.”

The NYPD reported that a 50-year-old man was shot outside the Hilton Hotel at approximately 6:46 a.m. He was transported to Mt. Sinai West hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Despite the ongoing investigation, no arrests have been made.

Footage captured by news cameras showed NYPD officers attempting to revive Thompson on the sidewalk before he was taken to the hospital. Witnesses suggested that the suspect may have been waiting outside the hotel for an extended period, potentially targeting Thompson.

Thompson’s sister, Elena Reveiz, expressed her grief in a phone interview, stating, “He was a good person, and I am so sad.” She highlighted Thompson’s role as a loving father to his children.

Police reports indicate that the shooter was wearing a ski mask and fled down an alleyway near West 55th Street. The suspect is described as a tall, slender man, approximately 6-foot-1, dressed entirely in black.

UnitedHealth Group, the parent company of UnitedHealthcare, holds the position of the largest health insurance company by market share. The loss of its CEO has sent ripples through the industry, as colleagues and friends mourn the untimely death of a respected leader.

Watch a local news report about the incident below:

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