Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was tragically shot and killed outside a Manhattan hotel earlier this week. At the time of his death, Thompson and his wife, Paulette, were living apart, a detail that has drawn public attention amid ongoing investigations into his murder.
Thompson, 50, was on his way to an investor conference at the New York Hilton Midtown early Wednesday morning when he was fatally shot by an unidentified gunman. Paulette, 51, a physical therapist, confirmed that the couple had been living in separate homes in Maple Grove, Minnesota. While the reason for their separation is not fully known, Paulette revealed that her husband had received threats in the past but chose not to travel with security.
“We lived close, but we weren’t together,” Paulette shared in a brief statement. Public records show that Thompson purchased a $1 million home in 2018, less than a mile from the family’s $1.5 million residence where Paulette still lives with their two sons.
Former FBI supervisor Robert D’Amico believes the murder may have stemmed from a personal vendetta against Thompson’s leadership at UnitedHealthcare. “It was a targeted attack,” D’Amico told NBC News. “The shooter appeared well-prepared and likely planned the crime after gathering personal details online.”
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Thompson’s role as CEO placed him under significant public and legal scrutiny. Last year, the Department of Justice launched a probe into allegations of monopolistic practices by UnitedHealthcare. Additionally, a lawsuit filed by the City of Hollywood Firefighters’ Pension Fund accused Thompson of insider trading. The legal document claims Thompson sold over 31% of his stock, making $15.1 million, while keeping investors in the dark about the federal investigation.
The couple’s separation is sparking curiosity about the dynamics of their marriage. Despite living close to each other, neighbors reported that Thompson spent much of his time traveling. This, coupled with the threats Paulette mentioned, paints a picture of a CEO managing significant stress both at home and at work.
Public records reveal that Thompson moved to his separate home in 2018, yet it remains unclear how this arrangement affected their relationship or whether it played any role in his personal or professional struggles. Paulette, however, has not indicated any connection between their living situation and her husband’s death.
Maple Grove residents and UnitedHealthcare employees have expressed their grief and disbelief. “Brian was a respected leader and a good neighbor,” said one local resident. The company, based in Minnetonka, Minnesota, issued a statement saying, “Brian was a highly respected colleague and friend. We are cooperating with authorities as they investigate.”
The NYPD is working tirelessly to identify Thompson’s killer. Surveillance footage shows the suspect wearing a hooded jacket and mask, which would not have drawn attention on a cold winter day. Authorities suspect the shooter may have escaped on an unmarked e-bike, further complicating the search. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch assured the public that investigators are treating the case with urgency. “This was not random,” Tisch said. “The suspect was waiting for his target.”
Despite drones, helicopters, and canine units combing the area, the gunman remains at large. A $10,000 reward has been offered for information leading to an arrest.
Featured image via Political Tribune Gallery
