Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare’s insurance unit, was shot and killed on December 4 outside a Hilton hotel in Midtown Manhattan.

The attack, described by police as targeted, occurred around 6:45 a.m. ET as Thompson was arriving for a company investor conference. Despite being rushed to a hospital, he was pronounced dead shortly after.

Authorities believe the shooter, who wore a mask and carried a gray backpack, had been lying in wait for Thompson. The suspect fled on foot before escaping on an electric bike.

Not random

New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch indicated that this incident was not random but premeditated. The motive is still under investigation.

Thompson’s wife, Paulette, reported he had previously received threats. UnitedHealth, the largest U.S. health insurer, is facing scrutiny after a significant data breach earlier this year affecting healthcare services.

Witnesses noted the gunman targeted Thompson specifically, as he ignored other pedestrians. Local police confirmed Thompson was shot in the back and the suspect continued firing despite a malfunction in the weapon.

In light of the incident, UnitedHealthcare canceled the remainder of its investor conference and expressed condolences to Thompson’s family.

A U.S. judge has once again denied Elon Musk’s controversial $56 billion Tesla pay package, raising questions about the company’s governance practices. Meanwhile, Donald Trump’s tariff threats against BRICS nations could derail de-dollarization efforts, adding tension to global trade dynamics.

Concerns are also growing around Super Micro Computer audits, which have sparked fears of potential vulnerabilities in the tech sector. Additionally, Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger has announced his departure, leaving questions about whether his efforts to revitalise the company met expectations.

These developments underline the influence of leadership on shaping the global tech landscape, as decisions continue to ripple across industries.

A recent study sheds light on how teenagers are turning to generative AI for both social and academic purposes.

From using chatbots for emotional support to leveraging AI for essay writing, the study reveals both the creativity and risks associated with these tools.

Parents, however, are struggling to keep up. Many are unaware of how extensively their children engage with AI and lack understanding of its potential risks. The gap in awareness highlights the need for ethical discussions and better parental guidance around generative AI.

Meanwhile, Oxford’s 2024 Word of the Year, “brain rot,” captures a growing cultural concern. The term, which originally appeared in the 19th century, now reflects the mental toll of consuming trivial and excessive online content. Its resurgence signals a collective awareness of the evolving relationship between technology and mental health.

Experts say these trends point to the need for critical conversations about the role of AI and social media in shaping our habits and well-being.