Bomb threats were made to properties owned by Brian Thompson and his widow just hours after the UnitedHealthcare CEO's murder on Wednesday, according to police documents and property records.
The Maple Grove Police Department confirmed that the threats were unfounded.
"No devices or suspicious items were located during the investigation," the department said. "The case is considered an active investigation, while the incident appears to be a hoax."
Though the Maple Grove police did not directly identify Thompson or his widow, WCCO confirmed through property records that the homes targeted were theirs.
Thompson, 50, was shot and killed outside a hotel in New York City Wednesday morning while heading to an investors conference for his company. New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch indicated that the shooting appeared to be "a premeditated, preplanned, targeted attack."
Surveillance footage captured both the shooting and the suspect’s escape. By Thursday afternoon, the shooter remained unidentified and at large.
CBS News reported on Thursday that shell casings recovered from the shooting scene had cryptic words such as "deny," "defend," and "depose" inscribed on them.
Law enforcement sources told CBS News that investigators and security personnel at UnitedHealthcare were reviewing files to search for potential motives, including past threats or disgruntled employees. The company has stated that it is fully cooperating with the investigation. Police are also examining social media and conducting interviews with employees, family members, and those close to Thompson, according to NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny.
Thompson, who became CEO of Minnetonka-based UnitedHealthcare in 2021, had been part of the parent company, UnitedHealth Group, since 2004.
Thompson is survived by his wife Paulette and their two sons. The family issued a statement following his death:
"We are shattered to hear about the senseless killing 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 sons and will be greatly missed. We appreciate your well wishes and request complete privacy as our family moves through this difficult time."
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