The sudden and brutal death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, 50, has left his family, colleagues, and the healthcare industry in mourning. Thompson was fatally shot in a targeted attack on December 4, outside the New York Hilton in Midtown Manhattan, while on his way to a UnitedHealth Group conference.

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch revealed the gunman waited before ambushing Thompson, striking him multiple times. Despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead at Mount Sinai West. The assailant fled, using a rental bike to disappear into Central Park. No arrests have been made, and a $10,000 reward is being offered for information.

Thompson’s wife, Paulette, disclosed that he had mentioned receiving threats before the attack. “There had been some threats… I just know he said people had been threatening him,” she told NBC News. Law enforcement is investigating these claims, but the motive remains unclear.

A respected leader, Thompson joined UnitedHealth Group in 2004 and became CEO of UnitedHealthcare in 2021, transforming healthcare access globally. UnitedHealth Group praised his vision and mourned his loss, saying, “We are deeply saddened and shocked.”

Paulette, a dedicated mother and professional, described her husband as “a loving father” and “an incredibly generous man” who will be deeply missed. The family, seeking privacy, continues to cope with their loss as colleagues lower flags in tribute to their visionary leader.