UnitedHealth Group CEO Brian Thompson Fatally Shot in Broad Daylight in Front of Midtown Hilton: Reports

UnitedHealth Group CEO Brian Thompson was fatally shot in Manhattan on Wednesday, Dec. 4, in front of the Hilton hotel, according to multiple reports, including ABC, The New York Times and PIX 11, who cite police sources.

A New York Police Department spokesman tells PEOPLE that officers responded to a call at about 6:40 a.m. in front of 1335 Sixth Avenue, the address for the New York Hilton Midtown, where they found a 50-year-old man who’d been shot in the chest. The victim was transported to the hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.

Multiple reports have named Thompson as the victim, but the spokesman said the victim’s name is being withheld publicly pending family notification.

According to the Times, which reviewed a police report, the gunman fled east on Sixth Avenue and police are still trying to locate him.

According to his bio on the company’s website, Thompson was named CEO in April 2021. Prior to that, he was CEO of the company’s government programs, including its medicare program. 

He joined the company in 2004, according to his bio. 

Lorie Burleson, Provider Advocate Account Manager at UnitedHealthCare, issued a statement on LinkedIn about the fatal shooting.

“This morning, we learned of the devastating loss of our CEO, Brian Thompson, who was tragically taken from us,” she wrote. “This is an unimaginable loss for UnitedHealth Group and for everyone who knew him.

“To my UHC family, my heart is with each of you during this incredibly difficult time. Let us come together to honor Brian’s legacy and support one another as we navigate this tragedy.”

This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.