Slain UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson Was a 'Good Father' to His 2 Children, Family Says

Mar. 15, 2025

UnitedHealthcare CEOBrian Thompson, who was fatally shot in what police called a “targeted” attack in New York City on Wednesday, Dec. 4, is being remembered as a dedicated father.

Thompson’s sister-in-law, Elena Reveiz, toldThe New York Timesthat the slain healthcare executive was a good father to his two children, adding, “He was a good person, and I am so sad.”

According to Channel2Now, Pauley Thompson is a physical therapist practicing with Park Nicollet Health Services. She earned her Master’s in Physical Therapy from the University of Iowa in 1999; Brian also attended the university.

The gunman was “lying in wait for several minutes” outside the Hilton waiting for the arrival of Thompson, who was staying at a hotel across the street, said NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch.

Brian Thompson.UnitedHealth Group

UnitedHealth Group

The gunman fired at least three bullets at Thompson, striking him from behind in the back and leg. Then, he fled northbound on Sixth Avenue and getting on an electric Citi Bike and fleeing towards Central Park.

According to police, the gunman was last seen heading into the park on the Center Drive at about 6:48 a.m., and remains on the loose.

“We are deeply saddened and shocked at the passing of our dear friend and colleague Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare,” UnitedHealthcare said in a statement Wednesday.

“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,” it concluded.

The scene of the shooting.Kyle Mazza/Anadolu via Getty

Kyle Mazza/Anadolu via Getty

Pauley Thompson toldNBC Newsthat her late husband had been receiving threats prior to his death.

“Yes, there had been some threats basically I don’t know, a lack of coverage? I don’t know [the] details,” she told NBC News. “I just know that he said there were some people that had been threatening him.”

She added to the outlet that she is trying to console her children amid learning of her husband’s death.

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The wanted shooter; Brian Thompson.NYPD CrimeStoppers; UnitedHealth Group

NYPD CrimeStoppers; UnitedHealth Group

The shooting took place just hours before the annual Rockefeller Center Tree lighting.

According to a bio on UnitedHealthcare’s company’s website, Thompson was named CEO in April 2021. Prior to that, he was CEO of the company’s government programs, including its medicare program. He joined the company in 2004, according to his bio.

source: people.com