Tragedy and glorification: the assassination of the CEO of UnitedHealthcare shocks the U.S.

The tragic death of Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare, has sparked a complex and disturbing reaction in society. Just days after his murder, the suspect has been elevated to an almost mythical status by some groups on social media, where there is a clear glorification of his figure. This phenomenon, which might seem unusual in a murder case, reflects a deep social discontent towards the healthcare insurance industry and the sense of injustice that many feel regarding the bureaucracy of the healthcare system. The shooting, which occurred on Wednesday morning in front of the Hilton Midtown hotel in New York, left the community in shock. Authorities have intensified their efforts to locate the shooter, who is believed to have left the city quickly after the crime. As of the weekend, the suspect remained at large, which has fueled an atmosphere of tension and speculation regarding his identity and motivations. However, the response to Thompson's murder goes beyond the search for the perpetrator. Social media has witnessed a series of messages that not only condemn the act but have also begun to frame it as an act of resistance against a system that many consider oppressive. Words written on the bullets, such as "depose," "deny," and "delay," have resonated strongly among those who view the shooting as an expression of accumulated frustration towards the healthcare insurance industry, which is often accused of prioritizing profits over patient welfare. An analysis of online posts reveals a disturbing pattern: more than half of the most commented messages on platforms like X lean towards supporting the shooter or criticizing the victim. This dynamic resembles that which emerges after mass shootings, where perpetrators of violence are transformed into symbols of struggle rather than being viewed as criminals. Alex Goldenberg, an expert on online threats, has expressed concern over this glorification of crime, indicating a shift in public narrative that could have destabilizing consequences. As the search for the suspect continues, online comments have fueled expressions of support for the shooter. In an act that defies logic, some have organized events to mimic his actions, seemingly mocking the law and paying tribute to the figure of the gunman. This type of behavior is not only alarming but also raises questions about how violence and desperation can be interpreted in a broader context and potentially inspire others to follow a similar path. Meanwhile, the business community, particularly in the insurance and healthcare sectors, watches with growing unease. Thompson's death has led to a review of security measures, highlighting the impact that attacks on public figures can have within the corporate realm. In an environment where trust in institutions is eroding, the threat to executive safety becomes a priority issue. However, the most concerning aspect is how the narrative surrounding the murder has permeated the collective imagination. In other cities, such as Philadelphia, graffiti replicating the words associated with the crime has been seen, extending the glorification of the shooter beyond New York. This phenomenon highlights how a tragedy can be reinterpreted and used as a symbol of struggle by those who feel marginalized or discontented. Amid this emotional turmoil, the question remains: what does the figure of the shooter truly mean to those who venerate him? Is he a hero in a class war, as some argue, or merely a criminal who has committed a senseless act of violence? The answer may not be clear, but the fact that there is a conversation about the legitimacy of his actions reflects the social tension that permeates contemporary society. As authorities continue their search and experts analyze the repercussions of this tragic event, it is evident that the death of Brian Thompson has not only caused a personal loss for his family and friends but has also triggered a broader debate about violence, social justice, and the role of the insurance industry in people's lives. In this context, the figure of the shooter becomes a mirror of the divisions and frustrations that many face in their daily lives, posing a critical challenge for our society as a whole.