Brian Thompson’s loved ones were left reeling after a targeted and brutal attack claimed the CEO’s life. His wife has since spoken out about her husband’s tragic death, sharing the grief that has gripped their family and revealed details that may shed light on why this tragedy occurred.
The death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson has left the healthcare industry, his family, and his community in shock. The 50-year-old executive was tragically killed in what authorities have described as a planned attack.
The incident occurred outside the New York Hilton hotel in Midtown Manhattan on December 4, as Brian was on his way to speak at UnitedHealth Group’s investor conference.
The gunman, who, according to reports, appeared to have been lying in wait for several minutes, approached Brian from behind and opened fire. According to Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, he was struck multiple times, including in the back and the right calf, before collapsing to the ground.
Police officers at the scene of Brian Thompson’s fatal shooting at the New York Hilton Midtown hotel on December 4, 2024. | Source: Getty Images
Despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead at Mount Sinai West. The assailant fled the scene, first on foot and later on a rental bike, and was last seen heading into Central Park.
At the time of writing, no arrests had been made, though Crime Stoppers had offered a $10,000 reward for information. Security footage of the incident revealed the chilling precision of the attack.
Brian, dressed in a blue suit, was seen walking down the street when the gunman approached him from behind and began firing. Tisch noted that the suspect appeared to deliberately wait for Brian, ignoring other passersby.
The motive for the killing remains unclear, but police have confirmed that he had recently received threats. Brian, who resided in Maple Grove, Minnesota, leaves behind his wife, Paulette, and their two sons.
A seasoned physical therapist with over 20 years of experience, Brian’s wife, who celebrated her 50th birthday in December 2023, has been described as a devoted mother and professional.
Originally from Webster City, Iowa, she earned her master’s degree in physical therapy from the University of Iowa, the same institution her late husband attended.
Known for her warmth and family-centered approach, Paulette often shared glimpses of her family life on social media, showcasing treasured vacations and heartfelt moments with her children. Paulette revealed that her husband had mentioned these threats before the attack, though she was uncertain of the details.
Speaking to NBC News, she said, “There had been some threats. Basically, I don’t know, a lack of coverage? I don’t know details. I just know that he said there were some people that had been threatening him.”
Law enforcement officials are now investigating the source and nature of these threats, but no further information has been disclosed.
In a public statement following her husband’s death, Paulette expressed the deep loss her family has suffered, “We are shattered to hear about the senseless killing of our beloved Brian.”
“Brian was an incredibly loving, generous, talented man who truly lived life to the fullest and touched so many lives. Most importantly, Brian was an incredibly loving father to our two sons and will be greatly missed,” she continued.
Brian’s death reverberated far beyond his immediate family. As CEO of UnitedHealthcare, he was a pivotal figure in the healthcare industry. He joined UnitedHealth Group in 2004 and held multiple leadership roles over the years, including chief financial officer for several business segments.
In 2021, he was named CEO of UnitedHealthcare, where he was instrumental in expanding the company’s global, employer, and government healthcare programs. Known for his vision and commitment to improving healthcare access, Brian was praised by colleagues for his transformative leadership.
UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty once described him as “especially well-suited to help UnitedHealthcare improve how health care works for consumers, physicians, employers, governments, and our other partners.”
UnitedHealth Group released a statement following his death, saying, “We are deeply saddened and shocked at the passing of our dear friend and colleague Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare. Brian was a highly respected colleague and friend to all who worked with him.”
“We are working closely with the New York Police Department and ask for your patience and understanding during this difficult time. Our hearts go out to Brian’s family and all who were close to him,” they added.
