Hunt for shooter after healthcare executive fatally shot

Police are on the hunt for a gunman after one of America's top CEOs was fatally shot in New York. 

The shooter was lying in wait for Brian Thompson, who was shot in the back outside a hotel in Manhattan. 

Thompson was the CEO of UnitedHealthcare: part of America’s largest insurance company and the country’s fourth-largest company as ranked by revenue.

The shooting happened on Wednesday morning when the company's annual investor conference was underway. 

The gunman fled the scene on foot before taking off on an electric bike through Central Park, with police still searching for the suspect. 

Thompson was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

“This does not appear to be a random act of violence,” New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said.

“Every indication is that this was a premeditated, pre-planned, targeted attack.”

UnitedHealth Group paid tribute to Thompson, saying he was a highly regarded friend and colleague. 

“We are working closely with the New York Police Department and ask for your patience and understanding during this difficult time,” it said.

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“Our hearts go out to Brian’s family and all who were close to him.”

UnitedHealthcare is the largest US health insurer, providing benefits to tens of millions of people, who pay more for healthcare than in any other country.

Image credits: United Health Group