Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealth Group’s insurance unit, was fatally shot outside the Hilton Hotel in midtown Manhattan early Wednesday morning in what authorities suspect was a targeted attack. He was 50 years old.

The New York Police Department (NYPD) confirmed that officers responded to reports of a shooting at 6:46 a.m. outside 1335 Avenue of the Americas. Emergency services transported Thompson to Mount Sinai West hospital in critical condition, where he was later pronounced dead.

A source familiar with the matter said the suspect used a firearm equipped with a silencer. Witness descriptions depict the shooter as a white male wearing a black hoodie, black pants, black sneakers with white trim, and carrying a gray backpack. The NYPD has not made any arrests and continues to investigate.

"We are fully committed to bringing justice in this case," an NYPD spokesperson stated. A press conference is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. to provide further updates.

UnitedHealth Group, the largest private health insurer in the U.S., canceled its investor day event at the Hilton Hotel following the incident. CEO Andrew Witty informed attendees of the cancellation, citing a “serious medical situation” involving a team member.

Shares of UnitedHealth Group showed resilience despite the tragedy, rising nearly 1% by midday trading. The company, which posted over $281 billion in revenue last year, is valued at $563 billion.

Thompson had a long tenure with UnitedHealth Group, joining in 2004 after nearly seven years with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). He rose to the position of CEO of UnitedHealthcare in April 2021, overseeing the insurer's operations and strategic direction. A graduate of the University of Iowa, where he was valedictorian, Thompson resided in Maple Grove, Minnesota.

Eyewitness accounts from the scene suggest the shooting was highly calculated. A nearby hot dog vendor, who declined to be named, said he noticed an unusual police presence around 6:30 a.m. but did not hear gunshots. A Hilton doorman starting his shift at 7 a.m. described the area as “normal” upon arrival.

Thompson’s death marks a somber chapter for UnitedHealth Group and the broader health care industry. Known for his dedication and leadership, colleagues have expressed shock and grief over the sudden loss.

UnitedHealth Group has yet to issue a formal statement beyond confirming the investor day cancellation.

The investigation is ongoing, and police urge anyone with information about the incident or the suspect to contact authorities.

This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.