UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s fatal shooting early Wednesday in New York City has shocked the healthcare industry.
Thompson, a veteran of two decades at the company, was fatally shot outside a hotel before the company’s annual investor conference, which was abruptly ended by UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty shortly after it began. No motive has been identified and a manhunt is underway for the gunman.
Related: Police: UnitedHealthcare CEO shooting a 'brazen, targeted attack'.
UnitedHealth is a leading force in health insurance and care delivery. Through statements, emails and social media posts, rival healthcare companies, trade associations, analysts, policymakers, government officials and other industry leaders have expressed their shock and sadness upon hearing the news.
Here's what they had to say.
UnitedHealth Group:
“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.”
UnitedHealth Group Vice President of People, DEI, Culture and Experience Antonio Toft:
"...This devastating news has sent shockwaves through my body and undoubtedly through the entire community, leaving us with so many unanswered questions.
I find myself at a loss for words to appropriately articulate the depth of our feelings for the loss of Brian. He was not only a remarkable leader but also a cherished friend and mentor to many of us. His contributions and dedication to our organization and the broader healthcare community have been immeasurable..."
Blue Cross Blue Shield Association President and CEO Kim Keck:
"The news of Brian Thompson’s death has shocked and deeply saddened all of us. I knew him to be a visionary leader who developed innovative ideas to take on some of the nation's greatest challenges. His death is a great loss for our country and for the healthcare industry. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues."
AHIP President and CEO Mike Tuffin:
"Heartbroken and horrified by the loss of my friend Brian Thompson. He was a devoted father, a good friend to many and a refreshingly candid colleague and leader. All of us at AHIP are thinking of Brian’s family and his UnitedHealth Group colleagues at this difficult time."
Walgreens CEO Tim Wentworth:
"Our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Brian Thompson, as well as to the entire team at UnitedHealth Group. Like so many across the healthcare industry and business world, we were shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the tragic, unthinkable news today. I have long respected Brian as a dedicated leader, and our thoughts and prayers are with the countless people who knew him on this incredibly difficult day."
Association for Community Affiliated Plans:
“Like everyone else, we’re shocked at this horrific act. Our thoughts are with Mr. Thompson’s family and his colleagues at UnitedHealth. We hope the shooter is found quickly and brought to justice.”
Better Medicare Alliance President and CEO Mary Beth Donahue:
“We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Brian Thompson and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues as they confront this unimaginable loss. Brian’s leadership and dedication to improving healthcare access and outcomes for millions of Americans will leave a lasting impact.”
Alliance of Community Health Plans President and CEO Ceci Connolly:
“This is terrible news, and our condolences go out to Brian’s family and everyone at United Healthcare.”
Medicaid Health Plans of America President and CEO Craig Kennedy:
"MHPA and our member Medicaid managed care organizations (MCOs) are saddened to learn of the senseless and untimely passing of United HealthCare CEO Brian Thompson today. Through his work at United, Brian was committed to helping beneficiaries live healthier lives, recognizing the importance of whole-person healthcare. Emphasizing that a simplified healthcare experience was optimal, he valued the importance of meeting consumer needs while sustaining positive, trustworthy relationships with providers. And in advocating for the nation’s healthcare delivery system to work for everyone, he helped ensure that vulnerable, underserved populations have access to quality, affordable, and effective healthcare. All of us at MHPA extend our deepest condolences to Brian’s family, friends, colleagues, and coworkers.”
Elevance Health President and CEO Gail Boudreaux:
“We are shocked and saddened to learn about the tragic loss of Brian Thompson, UnitedHealthcare CEO, and extend our condolences to his family, friends and colleagues affected by this senseless act of violence. Leadership in healthcare is marked by dedication, compassion, and a profound commitment to improving lives, and Brian embodied these qualities and more. Elevance Health stands in solidarity with UnitedHealth Group and offers our support as their team navigates this difficult period.”
Oscar Health CEO Mark Bertolini:
"Brian Thompson’s death is a tragedy. He was at the pinnacle of his career and is someone who cared deeply about changing healthcare for the better. His loss will be felt by everyone in the healthcare community. Our hearts go out to his family, the team at UnitedHealthcare, and anyone fortunate enough to have known Brian.”
Pharmaceutical Care Management Association President and CEO JC Scott:
“On behalf of PCMA, we are deeply saddened by the passing of Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare. During this difficult time, our thoughts, prayers, and support are with our colleagues at PCMA member OptumRx, the entire UnitedHealth team, and the Thompson family.”
RISE:
“We are saddened by the tragic news of Brian Thompson's passing this morning. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, loved ones, and the entire UnitedHealthcare team during this difficult time.”
Gary Taylor, managing director of equity research at investment bank TD Cowen:
“This is certainly surprising and tragic. Brian was well-respected by the Street."
Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.):
“This is a horrifying and shocking act of violence. My thoughts are with Brian Thompson’s family and loved ones and all those working at United Healthcare in Minnesota.”
Dr. David Shulkin, former secretary of the Veterans Affairs Department and former health system executive:
“This is a tragedy. There are no other words for it.”
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz (D):
“This is horrifying news and a terrible loss for the business and healthcare community in Minnesota. Minnesota is sending our prayers to Brian’s family and the UnitedHealthcare team.”
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey (D):
“This is a shocking and devastating loss for our whole community. Brian was a great man and my thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.”
Hayley DeSilva and Nona Tepper contributed.
