MAPLE GROVE, Minn. — Bomb threats were made against homes Brian Thompson and his widow hours later the murder of the CEO of United Healthcare Wednesday, according to police documents and property records.
The threats were unfounded, Maple Grove police said.
“No devices or suspicious objects were found during the investigation,” the department said. “The matter is considered an active investigation, while the incident appears to be a hoax.”
Although Maple Grove police did not name Thompson or his widow in announcing the threats, WCCO confirmed through property records that the targeted homes were owned by the two.
Thompson, 50, was fatally shot outside a New York City hotel Wednesday morning as he headed to his company’s investor conference. New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the shooting was likely “a premeditated, pre-planned, targeted attack.”
The shooting was captured on surveillance footage the suspect’s escape. Since Thursday afternoon the shooter was still at large.
On Thursday, CBS News confirmed The words “deny,” “defend” and “depose” were written on the shell casings recovered from the scene of the shooting.
Investigators and security at UnitedHealthcare are sifting through records for a possible motive, looking for possible prior threats and disgruntled or recently fired employees, a law enforcement source told CBS News. The company says it is cooperating with the investigation. Police are also looking at social media and interviewing employees, family members and others who knew Thompson, NYPD Chief Joseph Kenny said.
Thompson was named CEO of Minnetonka-based UnitedHealthcare in 2021, but previously worked at the parent company. UnitedHealth Groupsince 2004.
In addition to his wife Paulette, Thompson is survived by his two sons. The family issued a statement after his death:
“We are shocked to hear about the senseless murder of our beloved Brian. Brian was an incredibly loving, generous, talented man who truly lived life to the fullest and touched so many lives. Most importantly, Brian was an incredibly loving father to our two children. sons and we will be greatly missed. We appreciate your well wishes and ask for complete privacy as our family navigates this difficult time.”
