Days after UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was killed in a “brazen” shooting in Midtown Manhattan, the company has removed the list of its executive members from its official website. Previously, the site displayed the names and photos of its senior leadership. The move comes as police intensify their investigation into what they describe as a targeted attack.
Brian Thompson, 50, was fatally shot from behind early Wednesday morning while walking to UnitedHealth Group’s annual investor conference at the Hilton Hotel on Sixth Avenue. Surveillance footage shows a masked gunman calmly approaching Thompson, firing multiple shots, and fleeing on a bicycle into Central Park. Investigators believe the attacker had firearms training and used a silenced weapon.
Suspect used fake IDs to check-in to hotels
The New York Police Department (NYPD) has released photos of the suspect, including images taken at a Manhattan hostel where he reportedly stayed under a false identity. Officials believe the assailant travelled from Atlanta to New York by bus in late November, using cash and a fake ID to maintain anonymit, as per reports by NY Post. A $10,000 reward has been offered for information leading to an arrest.
Evidence recovered at the scene includes shell casings with the words “deny,” “defend,” and “depose” engraved on them—terms reminiscent of criticisms against the insurance industry. Investigators are examining whether this message is linked to Thompson’s role at UnitedHealthcare, the largest U.S. health insurer, which has faced scrutiny over claim denials.
Police scan phone for clues
Additional clues include a discarded water bottle and a phone found along the suspect’s escape route. While a fingerprint on the bottle was too smudged for identification, the phone may provide critical insights. Police are also reviewing extensive surveillance footage across New York City, leveraging one of the world’s most advanced monitoring systems.
Thompson, a father of two, had been with UnitedHealthcare since 2004 and served as CEO of its insurance division since 2021. His wife, Paulette, told NBC News that Thompson had recently mentioned receiving threats, possibly related to disputes over insurance coverage.