New York City police are currently on the hunt for a masked gunman following the tragic shooting of UnitedHealth Group CEO Brian Thompson. The incident occurred in midtown Manhattan, just hours before the much-anticipated Rockefeller Center Tree lighting ceremony.
Around 7 a.m. on Wednesday, December 4, Brian Thompson, aged 50, was shot in what authorities believe was a targeted attack. Reports from various news outlets, including reliable sources, indicate that he sustained a gunshot wound to the chest and emergency responders rushed him to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead.
The shooting took place outside the New York Hilton Midtown on Sixth Avenue, just as tourists were arriving in the city to participate in the festive celebrations nearby. Witnesses saw the shooter fleeing north on Sixth Avenue.
Although authorities have not officially named the victim, UnitedHealth Group has confirmed that Thompson was the individual involved in this tragic event. He had been with the company since 2004 and took on the role of CEO in April 2021, having previously led the company’s government programs, including its Medicare services.
Lorie Burleson, an account manager at UnitedHealth Group, shared her grief on LinkedIn, stating, “This morning, we learned of the devastating loss of our CEO, Brian Thompson, who was tragically taken from us. This is an unimaginable loss for UnitedHealth Group and for everyone who knew him.” She urged her colleagues to come together to honor Thompson’s legacy during this difficult time.
This incident highlights ongoing safety concerns and the challenges faced by major cities like New York. As the investigation continues, authorities are asking anyone with information about the shooting to come forward.
This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.
