On a tragic Wednesday morning, newly surfaced video footage captured the horrific moment Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was shot at close range in midtown Manhattan outside the Hilton Hotel. The video, acquired by Fox News Digital, shows Thompson walking along a busy NYC sidewalk when a masked assailant dressed in a black hoodie and carrying a backpack approached him from behind. In a terrifying turn of events, the gunman, with gloved hands, brandished a handgun and fired several shots at Thompson, while the CEO struggled to escape the onslaught. At one point during the shooting, it appears the firearm jammed, leading the assailant to futilely attempt to fix it while advancing towards Thompson, who was visibly trying to evade the danger.
The brazen attack struck panic among bystanders, one of whom was seen fleeing just feet away from the violence. Following the shooting, the assailant managed to evade capture by walking between parked cars, commandeering an e-Citi bike, and cycling into Central Park, according to the New York City Police Department (NYPD). As the hunt for the suspect continues, NYPD has released additional images and surveillance footage that reportedly shows the perpetrator making a stop at a nearby Starbucks shortly after the incident, escalating concerns about public safety in the area.
In response to the shooting, New York Governor Kathy Hochul addressed the media in a statement. She acknowledged being briefed by the Superintendent of the New York State Police regarding what she termed a “horrific and targeted shooting.” Hochul expressed condolences to Thompson’s family, underscoring the state’s commitment to supporting the NYPD in their investigation to swiftly apprehend the shooter and enhance the safety of New Yorkers in the aftermath of the fatal attack.
The offer of a reward surfaced shortly after the incident, as New York City Crimestoppers announced a combined bounty of up to $10,000 for anyone providing information leading to an arrest and indictment in the case. The incident emphasized the urgency tied to addressing rising gun violence, especially in metropolitan areas, and sparked dialogue on how to further safeguard residents against similar acts of violence.
Thompson’s family expressed their profound grief in the wake of his tragic death. His wife, Paulette Thompson, shared her heartbreak with Fox News Digital, describing Brian as an “incredibly loving, generous, talented man” who had a significant impact on the lives of many. She highlighted his role as a devoted father to their two sons and expressed the family’s desire for privacy as they navigate this painful chapter of their lives. The loss of such a prominent figure has reverberated throughout the community and the industry he served.
Law enforcement officials continue to call for public assistance in tracing the suspect, inviting individuals to report any lead that could aid in the investigation. People with potential information are encouraged to reach out to Crime Stoppers via multiple channels, including a dedicated hotline and an online submission platform. With security and community safety at stake, the hope remains that prompt action will yield justice for Brian Thompson and his distraught family, as well as bring a sense of safety back to the streets of New York City.
