A police officer was tragically killed during a hostage situation at a Pennsylvania hospital over the weekend. The incident occurred at UPMC Memorial Hospital in York on Saturday, February 22, when a gunman opened fire inside the facility.
According to hospital officials, the shooter, who has now been identified as 49-year-old Diogenes Archangel Ortiz, entered the hospital with a handgun and zip ties. He headed straight to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and took staff members hostage.
York County District Attorney Timothy Barker confirmed the events during a news conference. The suspect shot three hospital staff members, including a doctor who suffered a minor injury, while a nurse and a custodian were reported to be in stable condition. Another staff member also sustained injuries.
Law enforcement arrived at the scene shortly after 11 a.m., with multiple agencies responding, including the West York Borough Police Department and Pennsylvania State Police. Officers quickly formed a strategy to address the situation. Ortiz was later seen leaving the ICU with a hostage, leading to a confrontation with the police, during which he was fatally shot.
During this incident, three officers were also injured. Two of them are in stable condition, while Officer Andrew Duarte tragically lost his life. Following an examination of the events, the District Attorney stated the officers acted justifiably in using lethal force to prevent further harm.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro praised the brave actions of both law enforcement and hospital staff, who rushed to protect others during the crisis. The investigation into the shooting is still ongoing.
Officer Duarte joined the West York Police Department in 2022 after five years with the Denver Police Department. The police department expressed condolences and encouraged the community to come together in support during this difficult time, inviting residents to leave flowers at their offices.
