The murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson has sparked a wave of disturbing reactions both online and in the streets of New York City.

Thompson, a father of two, was allegedly killed by Luigi Mangione, and the public response has ranged from sympathy to outright celebration of the crime.

Over the past 48 hours, social media platforms have been flooded with users referring to Mangione as a “hero,” an “icon,” and even a “thirst trap.”

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Some high-profile commentators, such as Taylor Lorenz, expressed “joy” over the killing and shared the names of other insurance executives online.

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The backlash has now extended offline, with reports of posters targeting healthcare and insurance executives being hung throughout New York City.

On Wednesday, social media users reported spotting “wanted” posters featuring the names and photos of industry leaders, including Thompson.

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One poster depicted Thompson with a giant red “X” crossed over his face.

The posters were not limited to healthcare executives. According to TMZ, similar posters targeting the CEO and CFO of Goldman Sachs were found near their offices.

The New York Post reported that some posters bore the message “HEALTH CARE CEOS SHOULD NOT FEEL SAFE” and included phrases such as “DENY,” “DEFEND,” and “DEPOSE,” which were allegedly inscribed on the bullets used in Thompson’s murder.

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Additionally, many posters highlighted executives’ salaries and included inflammatory language. According to ABC News, one poster read, “UnitedHealthcare killed everyday people for the sake of profit.

As a result, Brian Thompson was denied his claim to life. Who will be denied next?” The posters also featured bullet-shaped graphics, further fueling concerns over escalating threats.

In response to the posters and online activity, the New York Police Department (NYPD) issued a public warning on Tuesday.

A bulletin obtained by ABC News stated, “Both prior to and after the suspected perpetrator’s identification and arrest, some online users across social media platforms reacted positively to the killing, encouraged future targeting of similar executives, and shared conspiracy theories regarding the shooting.”

The NYPD has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, emphasizing the importance of addressing the rising tension surrounding this case.

Further controversy arose when Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) commented on the incident during an appearance on MSNBC with Joy Reid.

While condemning violence, Warren’s remarks were seen by some as inflammatory.

“What happens when you turn this into the billionaires run it all, is they get the opportunity to squeeze every last penny. And look…violence is never the answer. This guy gets a trial, who has allegedly killed the CEO of UnitedHealth… but you can only push people so far, and then, they start to take matters into their own hands,” Warren said.

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The senator’s comments drew significant backlash, with critics accusing her of implicitly excusing the violence.

On Wednesday, Warren attempted to clarify her remarks, stating, “Violence is never the answer. Period. I should have been much clearer that there is never a justification for murder.”

The murder of Brian Thompson has highlighted a troubling trend of hostility toward corporate leaders in certain sectors, particularly healthcare and finance.

The targeting of executives through posters and online vitriol underscores rising tensions and growing public frustration with perceived inequities in these industries.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the threats and public sentiment surrounding this case, emphasizing the need for public discourse to avoid escalating into further violence.