The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of UnitedHealthcare, Brian Thompson, has been shot dead in the United States.

Thompson, 50, was shot in the chest near the New York Hilton on Sixth Avenue at 7 a.m. (U.S. time) on Wednesday, December 4, 2024.

A manhunt is underway in Manhattan after Thompson was shot on Wednesday morning, the New York Police Department said.

A New York Police Department press conference is scheduled for 11:30 a.m.

Thompson was transported to Mount Sinai West in critical condition, but was later pronounced dead, the NYPD stated.

It has not been confirmed that Thompson was staying in the New York Hilton, but he is visiting New York City from Minnesota for an investor conference, which was scheduled for today.

“I’m afraid that we – some of you may know we’re dealing with very serious medical situation with one of our team members,” UnitedHealth Group staff said during the investor day on Wednesday morning, according to a transcript obtained by CNBC.

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“And as a result, I’m afraid we’re going to have to bring to a close the event today, which I’m sure you’ll understand,” the staff added.

The NYPD is still investigating the situation. WABC reported it was a “targeted shooting” and that, according to witnesses, the gunman fled north after firing and described them as being 6’1″ and wearing a black jacket, black hat, and black ski mask while carrying a black backpack.

Thompson was named the CEO of UnitedHealthcare in April 2021, after having previously served as the CEO of UnitedHealthcare’s government programs, which include Medicare & Retirement and Community & State, according to his company profile.

He joined the company in 2004, which is under UnitedHealth Group – ranked 8th in Fortune’s 2024 list of the world’s 500 largest companies.

The Star