Crime
UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson receiving ‘threats’ prior to fatal shooting, wife Paulette ‘Pauley’ Thompson says
Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare’s insurance division, had reportedly been the target of threats in the weeks leading up to his tragic and fatal shooting in Midtown Manhattan, according to his wife, Paulette “Pauley” Thompson.
The 50-year-old executive was gunned down outside the New York Hilton Midtown early Wednesday morning in what authorities have labeled a targeted attack.
The incident occurred as Thompson arrived at the hotel for an Investor Day conference. A masked assailant, allegedly waiting for him, fired multiple shots before fleeing the scene on a bicycle.
Paulette Thompson, grieving the loss of her husband, revealed that Brian had recently been receiving threats. While she did not elaborate on the nature or source of these threats, she emphasized that Brian had shared his concerns with her in private conversations. “He mentioned feeling uneasy recently, but he didn’t let it show much,” she said. “I never thought it would escalate to this.”
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether these threats are linked to the fatal shooting. The investigation remains ongoing, and law enforcement officials are examining all possible motives, including business-related disputes or personal vendettas.
Mayor Eric Adams reassured the public that the shooting was not a random act of violence.
“This appears to have been a deliberate and targeted murder,” he stated during a press conference. Police sources indicated that the assailant fired multiple shots from a distance before fleeing through the Ziegfeld alleyway.
The suspect, described as a white male wearing a cream-colored jacket, black face mask, and black-and-white sneakers, remains at large. Surveillance images show him carrying a gray backpack and later pedaling away on a bicycle.
Brian Thompson leaves behind Paulette, a seasoned physical therapist, and their two children.
The family resides in Maple Grove, Minnesota, where they shared a $1.5 million home. Paulette, who earned her Master’s in Physical Therapy from the University of Iowa, has been an anchor for the family while excelling in her career with Park Nicollet Health Services.
The couple had built a life centered on family values and shared moments. Paulette often shared heartfelt posts of family vacations and gatherings, highlighting their close-knit bond.
Thompson had served UnitedHealthcare for over 20 years, rising to become CEO in 2021. Known for his leadership in government programs, including Medicare and retirement initiatives, he was a respected figure in the healthcare industry.
The tragic loss of Brian Thompson has left his family, colleagues, and the broader community in shock. Law enforcement is urging anyone with information regarding the case to come forward.
As the investigation continues, Paulette and her family are left grappling with unanswered questions and the void left by a man described as a dedicated husband, father, and leader.
City of Hammond, Louisiana — At approximately 11:50 p.m. on February 24, 2026, officers with the Hammond Police Department responded to a report of shots fired involving one possible victim.
Upon arrival, officers located a 14-year-old juvenile female, identified as Tyronai Reed, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound.
Emergency medical assistance was rendered at the scene, and she was transported to North Oaks Health System for treatment.
Despite life-saving efforts, Reed later succumbed to her injuries.
Detectives assigned to the department’s Criminal Investigations Division launched an immediate homicide investigation.
During the course of their investigation, authorities identified 18-year-old Demontez Treyvon “Trey” Robinson of Hammond as a suspect in the shooting.
While actively working the case, officers observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed and conducted a traffic stop.
Robinson was identified as the driver of the vehicle and was taken into custody without incident.
Robinson was transported to the Criminal Investigations Division for questioning. According to investigators, Robinson admitted that the firearm discharged while he was handling or “playing with” it, resulting in the single round striking the 14-year-old victim.
Robinson was subsequently booked into the Hammond City Jail on one count of Negligent Homicide.
Authorities emphasize that the investigation remains in its early stages and additional details may be released as they become available.
Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact Detective Corey Morse with the Hammond Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at 985-277-5758 or via email at morse_cm@hammond.org. Tips may also be submitted through the department’s official Facebook page or anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa at 1-800-554-5245.
Individuals providing information may be eligible for a cash reward. Authorities urge members of the community to assist in the ongoing investigation.