The targeted and brazen murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Midtown Manhattan has sent shockwaves through corporate America. Thompson, 50, was fatally shot by a masked assailant outside a busy hotel on Wednesday.
What’s equally surprising is the muted response from the typically active online true-crime community, which has largely remained silent on the high-profile case. Unlike similar incidents that ignite a surge of amateur investigations, this crime has seen little engagement, with some online personalities openly expressing indifference, as reported by NBC News.
Authorities revealed that shell casings found at the crime scene were initially marked with the words “deny,” “defend,” and “depose,” though later clarified as “delay.” Despite the shocking nature of the crime, social media discussions have been notably subdued.
TikTok creator Michael McWhorter, known as TizzyEnt, highlighted the unusual lack of interest to his 6.7 million followers. “I haven’t seen a single video demanding justice or action,” McWhorter remarked, noting how typically, online communities would rally to solve such cases.
The online reaction to Thompson’s death has been polarized. While some mourn his loss, others have expressed disdain toward the healthcare system, with a few even celebrating his death. Alex Goldenberg, a senior adviser at The Network Contagion Research Institute, called the trend of glorifying violence “deeply concerning.” Thompson’s family, meanwhile, issued a heartfelt statement describing him as a “loving father” who will be deeply missed.
Prominent TikTok sleuth Savannah Sparks, with 1.3 million followers, admitted her community has not mobilized around the case. “We’re largely apathetic,” Sparks noted, explaining that many prefer offering “thoughts and prayers” rather than taking action. Similarly, influencer thatdaneshguy, with 2 million followers, stated, “I don’t have to encourage violence, but I also don’t have to help.”
Public dissatisfaction with the U.S. healthcare system has further fueled this lack of empathy. A recent Gallup poll found that Americans believe healthcare quality is at its lowest point in 24 years. Thompson, as a wealthy CEO, may not have been seen as relatable, contributing to the apathy, according to Sukrit Venkatagiri, an assistant professor at Swarthmore College.
Despite the online silence, law enforcement continues to investigate the case. The NYPD has released surveillance footage of a person of interest and is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. As of now, no suspects have been identified.
