A violent hostage crisis at UPMC Memorial Hospital in York, Pennsylvania, ended in tragedy as Officer Andrew Duarte was killed while responding to the incident, leaving a community in mourning and raising serious questions about hospital security.
Key Takeaways
- Armed man Diogenes Archangel Ortiz took ICU staff hostage at UPMC Memorial Hospital in York, PA.
- Officer Andrew Duarte was killed, and two other officers were injured during the confrontation.
- Three hospital workers were shot, and a fourth was injured in a fall during the crisis.
- The incident highlights growing concerns about violence in healthcare settings.
- Governor Josh Shapiro praised the bravery of police and healthcare workers involved.
Tragic Hostage Situation Unfolds
On a Saturday morning, UPMC Memorial Hospital in York, Pennsylvania, became the scene of a horrifying hostage situation. Diogenes Archangel Ortiz, armed with a handgun and zip ties, entered the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU), targeting staff members. The 104-bed facility quickly descended into chaos as local law enforcement rushed to respond to the unfolding crisis.
As the situation escalated, Officer Andrew Duarte of the West York Borough Police Department, along with other responding officers, confronted the gunman. In a tragic turn of events, Officer Duarte, a veteran law enforcement officer who had previously served with the Denver Police Department, was fatally shot during the confrontation. Two other officers sustained injuries in the line of duty.
Healthcare Workers Under Fire
The violence wasn’t limited to law enforcement. Three hospital workers, including an intensive care doctor, a nurse, and a custodian, suffered gunshot wounds during the attack. A fourth employee was injured in a fall while trying to escape the dangerous situation. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability faced by healthcare professionals in their workplace.
The attack on UPMC Memorial Hospital is part of a disturbing trend of increasing gun violence in U.S. hospitals. The healthcare industry, once considered a safe haven, is reportedly now recognized as one of the most dangerous professions in terms of workplace violence.
Community Response and Remembrance
In the wake of this tragedy, the York community has come together to mourn the loss of Officer Andrew Duarte and support the injured victims. Local officials, including District Attorney Tim Barker, have praised the bravery of the responding officers and healthcare workers who risked their lives to protect others.
“This is a huge loss to our community. It is absolutely clear, and beyond any and all doubt, that the officers were justified in taking their action using deadly force,” Barker said.
Governor Josh Shapiro condemned the attack as cowardly and emphasized the extraordinary courage displayed by those who ran toward danger to keep others safe. The community has been invited to pay their respects to Officer Duarte at a designated location, honoring his sacrifice and service to the people of York.
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
