Who is Brian Thompson? A Look at the UnitedHealthcare CEO Who Was Fatally Shot in N.Y.C. One Year Ago

Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was tragically killed outside a Manhattan hotel on December 4, 2024. He is survived by his wife, Paulette Thompson, and their two sons.

The suspect, Luigi Mangione, has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with Thompson's death and is currently held without bail at the State Correctional Institution in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania. Nearly a year later, Mangione appeared in a pre-trial hearing in New York City on December 1 to review evidence in his case.

Early Life and Education

Thompson grew up in Iowa and earned a bachelor's degree in business administration and accounting from the University of Iowa in 1997, where he was recognized as valedictorian and received multiple academic honors.

Career at UnitedHealthcare

He joined UnitedHealthcare in 2004 after working over six years at PwC. Thompson climbed the corporate ladder, ultimately becoming CEO in April 2021. Under his leadership, UnitedHealthcare continued to operate as a division of UnitedHealth Group, one of the largest insurance companies in the United States.

Fatal Shooting

On the morning of December 4, 2024, Thompson was arriving at the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan for an investors conference. A masked gunman shot him in the chest just steps from the entrance. The assailant then fled the scene on a bicycle. Thompson was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.

NYPD officials described the shooting as a targeted attack. Items found at the scene suggested the assailant may have planned the attack in advance, although the motive remains unknown. Thompsons wife mentioned that he had recently received threats.

Legal Proceedings

Five days after the shooting, Luigi Mangione was arrested and charged with second-degree murder. He also faces multiple charges in Pennsylvania. The case remains ongoing, with court hearings to determine which evidence will be presented at trial.

Personal Life

Although Thompson and his wife had been living separately for several years, they remained devoted parents to their two sons. Paulette Thompson, a physical therapist, described her husband as loving, generous, and dedicated to family in a statement after his death.

Their elder son graduated high school in 2024, while their younger son is in his sophomore year. Thompson was actively involved in his sons lives, attending sports events and supporting their pursuits.

Legacy

Thompson was remembered by colleagues as intelligent, approachable, and highly respected. UnitedHealth Group praised him as a valued leader and friend, highlighting his ability to simplify complex health care topics and maintain strong relationships with colleagues.

His passing prompted widespread tributes from friends, colleagues, and the business community, reflecting on his contributions and the impact he had on those around him.

Author: Grace Ellison