CCTV Footage: UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson Shot Dead in NYC

Brian Thompson, the 50-year-old CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was fatally shot outside the New York Hilton Midtown.

New York police reported the incident as a "brazen targeted attack," all of which was captured on CCTV.

The tragic event unfolded just steps away from the venue hosting UnitedHealth Group's annual investor conference.

Who Was Brian Thompson?

Brian Thompson was a dedicated leader in the healthcare sector.

In April, 2021, he was promoted to CEO of UnitedHealthcare. 

He spearheaded a division that serves millions, offering insurance plans across the United States. 

He was known for his expertise and compassionate leadership.

Thompson joined UnitedHealth Group in 2004, holding various executive roles before taking the helm at UnitedHealthcare. 

He leaves behind a grieving family, including his wife Paulette and two sons.

Brian Thompson

What Happened to Brian Thompson?

On December 4, 2024, UnitedHealth CEO Brian Thompson was fatally shot, with CCTV capturing the chilling moments of the incident.

Thompson was walking towards the Hilton Midtown around 6:45 a.m. when a masked gunman approached him from behind. 

The attacker fired multiple rounds, striking Thompson in the back and leg. 

According to Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, the shooter had been lying in wait for several minutes, targeting Thompson with chilling precision.

Eyewitness accounts and video evidence revealed that the assailant’s firearm jammed during the attack. 

Undeterred, the shooter cleared the jam and continued firing. 

Thompson collapsed on the scene, succumbing to his injuries shortly after being rushed to Mount Sinai West.

Watch the chilling CCTV Video of the United Health CEOs shooting below.

Video: Eyewitnesses say that the Assassin who killed United Health Ceo, Brian Thompson, waited all night for the millionaire so that he could shoot him. Was this a hit?#unitedhealthcareceo #unitedhealth

See more details in the thread below 👇 pic.twitter.com/uP4yCn29T7

— True Crime Avenue (@Welovetruecrime) December 5, 2024

Why Was Brian Thompson Targeted?

Law enforcement in New York believe the incident was a premeditated, preplanned targeted attack."

While the motive remains unclear, crime investigators are exploring potential threats Thompson had received in recent months. 

His wife, Paulette Thompson, confirmed that her husband had mentioned receiving threats.

However, the nature and source of these threats are still under investigation.

A source familiar with the investigation revealed that the threats were directed at UnitedHealth Group executives in general, not Thompson specifically. 

The police are working to determine if these threats are linked to the shooting.

The assailant

Who Is the Suspect in the Shooting?

The assailant fled the scene using an electric Citi Bike and was last seen in Central Park. 

Surveillance images show the suspect wearing a black hoodie, black pants, and a gray backpack. 

Despite an intensive manhunt for the shooter, no arrests have been made. 

Crime Stoppers is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.

Adding a layer of mystery, shell casings recovered from the scene bore the words "deny," "defend," and "depose." 

While their significance is unknown, they have become a focal point in the ongoing investigation.

The shooting sent shockwaves through the healthcare sector and beyond. 

UnitedHealth Group, the parent company of UnitedHealthcare, issued a heartfelt statement:  

> “Brian was a highly respected colleague and friend to all who worked with him. Our hearts go out to Brian’s family and all who were close to him.”  

The investor conference, a pivotal event for the company, was abruptly canceled. 

Employees and stakeholders have been left grappling with the loss of a leader known for his dedication to improving healthcare access.

The assailant

How Is the Investigation Progressing?

Law enforcement in New York has vowed to leave no stone unturned in solving this case. 

Crime scene investigators are currently reviewing the CCTV video Brian’s Thompson’s shooting.

They are also analyzing evidence from the crime scene including shell casings and a cellphone believed to belong to the suspect. 

The NYPD has also intensified security in Midtown Manhattan, particularly around high-profile events like the Rockefeller Center tree lighting.

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated “This was a calculated and deliberate act. We are committed to bringing the perpetrator to justice.”

As the investigation unfolds, the healthcare community and the public at large continue to express their condolences. 

Have information?

If you have any details about the Brian Thompson murder, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS.

You can also report anonymously if you wish to keep your identity confidential.