On December 4, 2024, Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was fatally shot outside the New York Hilton Midtown hotel in Manhattan. The assailant, described as a man in a light-brown or cream-colored hoodie, approached Thompson from behind and fired multiple shots, striking him in the back and right calf. The shooter fled the scene on an electric Citi Bike, but this information was later retracted by the NYPD. Thompson was transported to Mount Sinai West Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 7:12 a.m.
Surveillance footage revealed that the gunman entered Central Park after the shooting, where police later discovered a backpack believed to belong to him. Authorities are analyzing DNA evidence collected from a water bottle found at the crime scene. The suspect’s movements were traced through surveillance footage, leading investigators to believe he fled the city by boarding an interstate bus from George Washington Bridge Bus Station.
The NYPD has identified the suspect’s arrival in New York City on November 24, 2024, via bus. He was seen entering a hostel with a fake ID and using cash, keeping his identity hidden. The gunman was last seen riding an e-bike in Central Park, and his movements were traced through surveillance footage. Despite extensive searches and some leads, including a burner phone and camera footage, the suspect remains at large.
The motive behind the assassination remains unclear. Bullet casings found at the scene bore the words “deny,” “defend,” and “depose,” indicating a possible connection to insurance claim rejections. Former Maryland State Police investigator Neill Franklin suggested that Thompson may have orchestrated his own death for reasons such as a potential investigation or to benefit his family.
In response to the murder, healthcare companies are enhancing their security measures for executives, with many seeking around-the-clock protection. UnitedHealthcare removed photos of Thompson and other executives from their website as a precaution. Despite security typically being a low priority due to costs and lack of revenue generation, experts predict an increase in threats against high-level corporate officers following this incident.
The investigation continues as authorities work to identify and apprehend the suspect. The public is urged to come forward with any information that may assist in the case. The NYPD and FBI are offering rewards for information leading to the suspect’s capture.
