In heartfelt tributes, UnitedHealthcare employees honor the late Brian Thompson, praising his leadership, kindness, and positive impact, following his shocking death in a targeted shooting outside a Manhattan hotel.
UnitedHealthcare is mourning the loss of its esteemed CEO, Brian Thompson, who was tragically shot and killed early Wednesday morning outside a Manhattan hotel. Thompson, 50, was fatally attacked by a masked gunman outside the Midtown Hilton in what authorities have described as a “premeditated, preplanned, targeted attack.” The incident has sent shockwaves through the healthcare community, with many of Thompson’s colleagues and employees expressing their grief and admiration for a leader they deeply respected.
Thompson, known affectionately as “BT” by his employees, was a 20-year veteran of UnitedHealth, having served as the chief of the company’s global employer, individual, specialty, and government benefits businesses. His loss has left a significant void, and tributes have poured in from those who knew him best.
Betuchy Galeano, a Florida-based employee at UnitedHealth, described Thompson as “a truly remarkable person” whose kindness and positivity were evident in all aspects of his work. “He had a way of making everyone feel valued, and his positivity was contagious,” Galeano wrote on social media. “This is a profoundly sad moment for me and for everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. RIP my friend, you will be missed.”
The tributes reflect a common sentiment among Thompson’s colleagues: his exceptional leadership and compassionate approach to both employees and clients. Victoria Claire, a medical coder from Pulaski, Wis., echoed this, writing, “A bright light was extinguished today. BT was always fighting for the employees and members, making sure everyone understood the importance of compassion and appreciation. Rest peacefully, BT, you will be missed.”
Kelly Kamish, a UnitedHealth project manager, praised Thompson not only as a leader but as a man of integrity. “BT was a great leader and an even better man,” Kamish shared. “My heart breaks for his family, friends, and colleagues. We are lucky to have had an opportunity to know and work with him.”
Monica Moore, another co-worker from Roanoke, Va., sent her deepest condolences to Thompson’s family, adding her personal tribute to the outpouring of support.
As the investigation continues, with the suspect last seen entering Central Park, the outpouring of tributes from UnitedHealthcare employees serves as a testament to the profound impact Thompson had during his time as CEO. He was a leader who inspired those around him with his relentless dedication, positivity, and deep commitment to his team.
This tragic loss has left a void not only within UnitedHealthcare but also within the wider healthcare industry, where Thompson’s leadership was admired by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
