A tragic hostage situation at UPMC Memorial Hospital in York, Pennsylvania, ended with a police officer killed and multiple injuries, raising concerns about security in healthcare settings.
Quick Takes
- An armed man took ICU staff hostage, resulting in one officer killed and multiple injuries.
- The suspect was identified as Diogenes Archangel-Ortiz, who had previous contact with the hospital’s ICU and was killed during the incident.
- Fallen officer Andrew Duarte is remembered for his service in West York and Denver.
- The incident highlights a trend of violence in U.S. hospitals.
- Governor Josh Shapiro praised the bravery of healthcare workers and law enforcement.
Hostage Situation Unfolds at Pennsylvania Hospital
On a Saturday morning, UPMC Memorial Hospital in York, Pennsylvania, became the scene of a horrifying incident when an armed man, identified as Diogenes Archangel-Ortiz, entered the facility carrying a handgun and zip ties. Ortiz reportedly went straight to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where he took staff members hostage, setting off a chain of events that would leave the community reeling.
Law enforcement quickly responded to the unfolding crisis. UPMC officers and local police departments rushed to the scene, facing a dangerous and volatile situation. In the ensuing confrontation, Officer Andrew Duarte of the West York Borough Police Department made the ultimate sacrifice, losing his life in the line of duty. Two other officers were injured during the incident, underscoring the perilous nature of the encounter.
Casualties and Injuries
The violence wasn’t limited to law enforcement. Three hospital workers, including an ICU doctor, a nurse, and a custodian, suffered gunshot wounds. Another employee was injured in a fall during the chaos. Fortunately, all injured hospital staff are reported to be in stable condition. The hospital confirmed that no patients were harmed during the incident, a small mercy in an otherwise tragic event.
The gunman, Ortiz, was eventually “neutralized” by law enforcement, bringing an end to the immediate threat. The district attorney later confirmed that the officers’ use of deadly force was justified, given the extreme circumstances they faced.
Remembering Officer Andrew Duarte
The loss of Officer Andrew Duarte has left a deep wound in the community. Duarte, who joined the West York Borough Police Department in 2022, had previously served five years with the Denver Police Department. His dedication to public service and willingness to put his life on the line for others exemplified the best qualities of law enforcement.
The community has been invited to pay their respects to Officer Duarte at a designated location, allowing citizens to honor the fallen hero and show support for his family and fellow officers during this difficult time.
Security Concerns in Healthcare Settings
This tragic incident at UPMC Memorial Hospital, a 104-bed facility, is part of a disturbing trend of gun violence in U.S. hospitals. The healthcare sector has become one of the most violent professions, with staff facing greater risks of non-fatal workplace violence injuries, per the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Aftermath and Moving Forward
In the wake of the attack, UPMC Memorial Hospital remained secure but on divert status, with non-scheduled employees asked to stay home. The hospital provided a hotline for families seeking information about their loved ones, demonstrating a commitment to supporting those affected by the tragedy.
Sources
- Officer killed after gunman takes hostages at Pennsylvania hospital
- Gunman dead after taking hostages, killing officer at UPMC York; 5 others injured
- Officer Dead After Gunman Takes ICU Staff Hostage at PA Hospital
