On December 4, 2024, the CEO of UnitedHealth Group, Brian Thompson, was tragically shot and killed in Midtown Manhattan, New York. Reports indicate that he had either been assigned or offered a security detail; however, it remains unclear why the security team was not present at the time of the attack.

Thompson’s wife publicly stated that he had been receiving threats related to his work in the healthcare industry, particularly amid nationwide inflation, which has fueled public frustration. Economic hardships often lead to anger directed at corporations—when grocery prices rise, consumers blame grocery companies; when fuel costs increase, oil companies face backlash. Similarly, rising healthcare costs can incite public outrage, sometimes escalating into violence.

Following Thompson’s death, many corporations are reassessing their security measures to ensure they provide adequate protection for their executives. With attacks like this being both unpredictable and dangerous, companies are beginning to question whether they could be the next targe

Be Aware

Staying aware of your surroundings is always important, but it becomes even more critical for high-profile individuals in large corporations, particularly those who receive daily threats or public scrutiny. Corporate executives often focus intensely on their work, tuning out their environment—a habit that can be dangerous, especially when traveling or moving through unfamiliar areas.

As seen in the case of Brian Thompson, travel can make high-profile individuals vulnerable, particularly if they are not paying close attention to their surroundings. A simple conversation—such as a casual exchange at a coffee shop where someone asks, “What do you do for a living?”—can quickly escalate. Revealing a high-ranking corporate position may provoke hostility from those who hold strong personal beliefs about the industry.

Tips for Situational Awareness:

✔ Pay attention to sights, smells, and sounds around you.
✔ Minimize distractions—put your phone down and stay focused.
✔ Observe people’s behavior and body language.
✔ Identify exit points and safe routes in case of an emergency.

When traveling, it is essential to remain vigilant, actively reading the behavior of those around you to detect potential threats. Unusual behavior should never be ignored—it could signal a developing danger. Prioritizing situational awareness allows individuals to react swiftly and appropriately if a situation escalates into violence.

Corporate leaders, public figures, and high-profile professionals must take proactive steps to enhance their personal security. Awareness, combined with strategic planning and protective measures, can make all the difference in ensuring their safety.

Never Travel Alone

It may sound cliché, but traveling with a companion significantly reduces the risk of being targeted in an attack. Having someone who knows your schedule and can account for you if you don’t arrive as expected adds an extra layer of security. Even something as simple as walking with a friend can deter potential threats, as attackers are less likely to act when there are witnesses.

The presence of more people makes it harder for an attacker to succeed without being noticed or caught. For even greater protection, traveling with personal security further minimizes the chances of becoming a target, providing professional vigilance and rapid response in case of danger.

Personal Security for CEO’s

While taking personal safety precautions is important, they alone cannot prevent a targeted attack. The most effective way to ensure protection as a corporate executive is by employing a team of highly skilled security professionals.

Corporate security teams are often composed of former law enforcement or military personnel with years of experience in threat assessment and crisis prevention. Their training enables them to identify potential dangers, implement preventative measures, and respond swiftly to protect the individual under their care. Investing in professional security is a crucial step for high-profile executives facing heightened risks.

How Security Officials Protect

The background and training of security personnel play a crucial role in how they handle threats. However, regardless of their experience, the security team lead will have a strategic plan in place to assess and respond to any potential danger effectively.

When evaluating a security team, key factors to consider include:

• Weapons and Equipment – What tools do they carry? Firearms, tasers, or stun guns?
• Threat Detection Expertise – How extensive is their experience in identifying and neutralizing risks?

Methods Used by Security Teams to Protect Clients:

✔ Isolating the Threat – Removing the client and bystanders from the danger zone.
✔ Eliminating the Threat – Disarming or restraining the attacker if necessary.
✔ Deterring the Threat – The visible presence of security can prevent an attack before it happens.

CEOs of major corporations face constant security risks, as some threats are not empty and must be taken seriously. Having a dedicated personal security team provides the highest level of protection, ensuring both personal safety and the stability of the company by safeguarding its key leadership.

How Fischer Protection Group Can Help

In today’s unpredictable world, executives need more than just basic security measures—they need expert protection. Fischer Protection Group specializes in high-level executive security, offering tailored solutions to mitigate risk and ensure the safety of corporate leaders.

✔ Highly Trained Security Personnel – Comprising former law enforcement and military professionals, Fischer Protection Group’s security teams are skilled in threat assessment, crisis response, and executive protection.
✔ Advanced Risk Assessment – Utilizing the latest technology and intelligence-gathering techniques, Fischer Protection Group proactively identifies potential threats before they materialize.
✔ Secure Travel and Transportation – From route planning to secure transportation, their teams minimize exposure to risk while ensuring efficiency.
✔ Discreet yet Effective Protection – Offering both visible and covert security options, Fischer Protection Group allows executives to continue their daily operations without disruption while maintaining optimal safety.

Don’t wait for a crisis to take action. Ensure the highest level of protection with Fischer Protection Group, the trusted partner in executive security. Protect what matters most—your safety, your business, and your peace of mind.