A leaked internal video of UnitedHealth Group’s CEO shows him telling the company’s employees that there are no benefits to talking to the media.
CEO Andrew Witty made the internal speech just days after the shocking murder of 50-year-old UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.
The footage of Witty’s comments was shared by journalist Ken Klippenstein on his website.
“You have seen a lot of media coverage of this situation, with a tremendous amount of misinformation and downright offensive communications,” Witty told employees, slamming the “aggressive, inappropriate and disrespectful” reporting on Thompson’s killing.
“People write things that we simply don’t recognize,” he added.
“I’d like to give you some advice about the media,” Witty continued. “My strong advice and request to everyone is: do not engage with the media. If you are approached, I advise you not to respond and, if necessary, simply refer you to our own media organization.”
The group’s CEO also assured workers they were safe, and discussed the increased safety measures the company has taken since Wednesday’s killing.
He also called Thompson “a truly extraordinary individual who touched the lives of countless people in our organization and beyond.”
Thompson was shot just before 7 a.m. Wednesday outside the Hilton Hotel in Midtown.
His murder was captured on surveillance cameras.
Thompson was shot in the back first and stumbled to the ground before being shot again, with at least one bullet entering a leg.
The NYPD investigates a possible message the killer left on the bullet casings.
Sources said the masked killer had scratched the words “deny,” “impeach” and “defend” into the rounds.
“Our priorities are first and foremost supporting Brian’s family; ensuring the safety of our employees; and work with law enforcement to bring the perpetrator to justice,” Witty added. “We, at UnitedHealth Group, will continue to be there for those who depend on us for their healthcare. We ask that everyone respect the family’s privacy as they mourn the loss of their husband, father, brother and friend.”
The manhunt for the killer continues. Authorities believe the gunman has already fled the area, and detectives recovered a backpack believed to belong to the killer in Central Park on Friday.
