A tragic incident unfolded on Saturday morning at UPMC Memorial Hospital in York County, Pennsylvania, leaving two people dead—West York Borough Police Officer Andrew Duarte and the gunman, identified as 49-year-old Diogenes Archangel-Ortiz.
The shooting injured four hospital staff members and two police officers during a violent hostage situation in the hospital’s intensive care unit (ICU).
What Happened at UPMC Memorial Hospital?
The shooting began around 12:45 a.m., when Archangel-Ortiz, armed with a handgun and carrying zip ties, entered the hospital’s ICU. Authorities say the gunman took multiple UPMC staffers hostage before engaging in a deadly shootout with police.
Timeline of Events:
- Archangel-Ortiz opens fire: Three hospital staff members were shot — a doctor was grazed, while a nurse and a custodian sustained more serious injuries but are reported to be in stable condition.
- Hostage situation unfolds: A fourth staffer was injured after falling while trying to escape.
- Police respond: UPMC security officers contacted neighboring law enforcement agencies for backup, including officers from Northern York County Regional Police, Springettsbury Township Police, and West York Borough Police.
- Confrontation escalates: Archangel-Ortiz emerged from the ICU, holding a staffer at gunpoint with zip ties binding their hands.
- Police open fire: Fearing for the hostage’s life, officers fatally shot Archangel-Ortiz in the hallway.
Officer Andrew Duarte: A Fallen Hero
During the exchange of gunfire, three officers were struck:
- An officer from the Northern York County Regional Police Department (injured, stable).
- An officer from the Springettsbury Township Police Department (injured, stable).
- Officer Andrew Duarte from the West York Borough Police Department (killed in action).
Honoring Officer Duarte’s Sacrifice
Officer Duarte, who had served with the West York Borough Police Department for over two years and previously worked with the Denver Police Department for five years, was remembered as a dedicated public servant:
“Pennsylvania lost another hero today. Officer Duarte’s bravery and commitment to upholding the law are a testament to the selflessness shown daily by those who have dedicated themselves to protecting and serving,” said Joseph Regan, President of the Fraternal Order of Police State Lodge.
Was the Attack Targeted?
According to District Attorney Tim Barker, Archangel-Ortiz’s attack appeared to target the ICU specifically. Investigators discovered that the gunman had prior contact with the ICU earlier in the week for a medical purpose involving another individual.
“It is absolutely clear and beyond any and all doubt that the officers were justified in using deadly force. Their actions potentially saved even more lives, though it came at a terrible cost,” Barker stated.
UPMC’s Response and Hospital Status
Following the shooting, UPMC Memorial Hospital was placed on divert status, meaning new patients were temporarily rerouted to other hospitals while the situation was secured.
In a statement, UPMC said:
“The hospital is now secure. Law enforcement is on the premises and managing the situation. No patients were injured in the incident.”
The health network has set up hotlines for families seeking more information:
- 717-849-5338
- 717-849-5334
Community Honors and Condolences
The West York Borough Police Department and law enforcement officials across Pennsylvania paid tribute to Officer Duarte:
“Our prayers and deepest condolences go out to Officer Duarte’s family, friends, and the entire West York Borough Police Department. Our community grieves the loss of a hero,” said the West York Borough Police.
Pennsylvania Attorney General David Sunday Jr. also expressed his condolences:
“I pray for the officers and hospital workers who were injured. May we stand together in this heartbreaking moment, humbled by their strength and bravery.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Pennsylvania State Police Troop J Major Case Team is leading the investigation. Authorities are reviewing evidence and attempting to uncover the motive behind Archangel-Ortiz’s attack, with a focus on his earlier interactions with the ICU.
