MINNETONKA, Minn. — Brian Thompson, CEO of Minnetonka-based UnitedHealthcare, is dead after he was fatally shot while attending the company's annual investor conference in New York City Wednesday.
New York City police say Thompson was killed in a "brazen, targeted attack." In a press conference late Wednesday morning, Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenney said the gunman showed up outside the New York Hilton five minutes before Thompson walked up, approached and fired multiple shots, then escaped on foot before jumping on an eBike.
The last time he was spotted was riding through Central Park.
"Brian was a wonderful person with a big heart and who lived life to the fullest," his wife Paulette Thompson told KARE 11's Lou Raguse. "He will be greatly missed by everybody. Our hearts are broken and we are completely devastated by this news. He touched so many lives."
Brian Thompson leaves behind his wife and two sons who attended Wayzata High School; one is a current student while the other is a 2024 graduate. School officials say the Wayzata H.S. community is heartbroken, and promised support for both students and staff members impacted by the "devastating event."
Thompson, 50, joined UnitedHealth in 2004 and quickly climbed the leadership ladder, being named chief executive officer of the insurance division in April 2021. The company says UnitedHealthcare employs nearly 140,000 people across the United States and globally, and is part of UnitedHealth Group, ranked sixth in the Fortune 500.
Prior to being named CEO, Thompson served as leader of UnitedHealth's government programs division.
A search of public records indicates Thompson owned a home in Maple Grove.
His LinkedIn profile says Thompson was a 1997 graduate of the University of Iowa, where he was named outstanding accounting student by the Iowa Society of CPAs.
Late Monday morning UnitedHealth Group released a statement mourning the passing of their longtime colleague.
“We are deeply saddened and shocked at the passing of our dear friend and colleague Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare. Brian was a highly respected colleague and friend to all who worked with him. We are working closely with the New York Police Department and ask for your patience and understanding during this difficult time. Our hearts go out to Brian’s family and all who were close to him.”
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz was among those reacting to Thompson's tragic death Wednesday. "This is horrifying news and a terrible loss for the business and health care community in Minnesota," Walz posted on X (Twitter). "Minnesota is sending our prayers to Brian’s family and the UnitedHealthcare team."
At a press conference earlier in the day, Governor Walz said he knew Thompson.
Other lawmakers and colleagues have shared their thoughts on social media, and in various statements. Senator Amy Klobuchar and Senator Tina Smith both posted on X.
General Mills Chairman and CEO Jeff Harmening offered his condolences, saying, "we offer our heartfelt condolences to Brian’s family, friends, and his colleagues. Like everyone, we are shocked and deeply saddened by Brian's death."
"He was a beloved father, husband, and a good friend to many here — and he will be truly missed," Harmening continued.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said in a statement, "This is a shocking and devastating loss for our whole community. 'Shocking' is the only word I can find at the moment."
Spokespeople for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, held in Minnesota, said Thompson was an honorary co-chair of the games.
"Brian was a passionate advocate for the Special Olympics movement and a steadfast supporter of our mission to celebrate the abilities of athletes with intellectual disabilities," their statement reads. "The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games will honor Brian’s legacy by continuing the work he championed and celebrating the courage and determination of our athletes."