CEO of Major US Health Insurance Firm Received Threats Before Fatal Shooting

New York, Dec 5 (NationPress) The spouse of the slain CEO of the largest US health insurance company revealed that he had been the recipient of death threats while law enforcement worked diligently to apprehend the individual who brazenly shot him in mid-Manhattan.

The shooting incident on Wednesday morning, occurring outside a Hilton hotel amidst a bustling crowd of tourists gathered for the iconic Rockefeller Centre Christmas tree lighting later that evening, sent shockwaves through the city.

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch sought to calm the visitors, asserting that the killing was a premeditated, preplanned, and targeted attack that did not appear to be an arbitrary act of violence.

“Millions of people will be enjoying the tree lighting tonight, along with other holiday festivities, and the NYPD will be present to ensure their safety,” she emphasized.

Paulette Thompson, the wife of Thompson, informed NBC News that he had mentioned to her that “there were individuals who had been threatening him.”

She speculated that the threats might stem from a “lack of coverage” in the company’s insurance programs.

Thompson was at the helm of UnitedHealthcare (UHC), the largest health insurance provider in the US, boasting an annual revenue of $281 billion and employing over 140,000 people, many of whom are based in India for back-office, technology, and strategic roles.

The company primarily offers private health insurance through employers, in addition to providing plans under government programs catering to seniors and economically disadvantaged individuals.

Authorities described the assailant as a light-skinned man dressed in a light brown or cream-colored jacket, donning a black facemask and carrying a grey backpack.

Tisch mentioned that “it appears the suspect was waiting for several minutes” before shooting Thompson as he approached the hotel for a company investment conference.

He was struck in the leg and chest as the shooter opened fire from behind. After the initial shot, a .9 mm weapon malfunctioned, but he was seen on security footage quickly clearing the jam and continuing to shoot.

Police Department Chief Joseph Kenny stated, “It appears he is skilled with firearms, as he was able to rectify the malfunction swiftly.”

The shooter was seen on video calmly crossing the street, hopping onto an electric bike available for hire throughout the city, and departing the scene.

He was later observed in Central Park before authorities lost track of him.

The police are diligently following leads from the bike rental service to try and locate the individual.

In the footage, Thompson is seen turning around towards the shooter after being shot before collapsing to the ground.

Emergency responders, who arrived within minutes alongside police, attempted to revive him before transporting him to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead.

At the age of 50, Thompson ascended to the role of CEO at UHC after two decades of dedicated service within the company.

“Our deepest condolences go out to Brian's family and all those who were close to him,” stated his company in an official announcement.

Federal officials and legislators have criticized UHC for allegedly denying coverage to clients or failing to authorize payments for provided healthcare services, leaving policyholders to bear the financial burden.

This situation has sparked controversy and resentment among some of those insured by the company.

Numerous individuals on social media platform X expressed negative sentiments regarding Thompson.