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.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) is investigating a series of shootings that occurred Wednesday night in Pahokee, culminating in a deputy-involved shooting.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office, and PBSO’s Violent Crimes Division are conducting parallel and joint reviews of the incident.
According to authorities, the violence began on Wednesday, February 25, at approximately 10:12 p.m., when 44-year-old Charles McCloud Jr. allegedly initiated a series of shootings at multiple locations throughout Pahokee over a roughly 40-minute span.
First Shooting – 171 Booker Place (10:12 p.m.)
McCloud allegedly shot two adult males at a residence located at 171 Booker Place.
Both victims were pronounced deceased at the scene.
Second Shooting – 8700 Block of Doveland Drive
Shortly afterward, multiple gunshots were reported in the 8700 block of Doveland Drive.
Although several rounds were fired, authorities confirmed that no individuals were struck during this incident.
Third Shooting – 750 Belle Glade Road
The third shooting occurred at a convenience store located at 750 Belle Glade Road.
An adult male was shot during this incident and transported for medical treatment. Officials report the victim is expected to survive.
While responding to the reported gunfire on Doveland Drive and conducting a preliminary investigation, a PBSO deputy was securing the area with crime scene tape when McCloud allegedly drove a black GMC SUV directly at the deputy.
Authorities state that McCloud struck the deputy with the vehicle, pushing him approximately 40 feet. After exiting the SUV armed with a firearm, McCloud allegedly attempted to shoot the injured deputy.
In response, the deputy discharged his service weapon, striking McCloud. A second PBSO deputy also discharged his firearm during the encounter. McCloud was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The injured deputy sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving treatment at St. Mary’s Medical Center.
According to PBSO, Charles McCloud Jr. had an extensive criminal history, including prior charges for Riot, Resisting an Officer with Violence, Armed Robbery, Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Narcotics Equipment/Possession, and Escape or Attempted Escape from a county facility.
In accordance with standard agency policy, the deputy involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
The FDLE, the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office, and PBSO’s Violent Crimes Division continue to actively investigate all aspects of the shootings, including the deputy-involved use of force.
Additional information will be released as it becomes available.