Tragedy at UPMC Memorial Hospital: Officer Killed, Hostages Taken in ICU Shooting
A tragic and terrifying scene unfolded at UPMC Memorial Hospital in York County, Pennsylvania, on Saturday when an armed gunman stormed the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), killing a police officer and wounding multiple others. The shooter, identified as 38-year-old Diogenes Archangel-Ortiz, was ultimately shot and killed by law enforcement after a tense standoff.
A Deadly Attack Unfolds
The violence erupted around 10:35 a.m. when Archangel-Ortiz entered the hospital carrying a bag containing a semi-automatic handgun and zip ties. According to York County District Attorney Timothy Barker, he made his way directly to the ICU, where he opened fire, shooting a doctor, a nurse, and a custodian before taking hospital staff hostage.
West York Borough Police Officer Andrew Duarte was among the first responders to the crisis and was fatally shot during the intense exchange of gunfire. Two additional officers from the Northern York and Springettsbury Township Police Departments were also shot but survived. Three UPMC staff members sustained gunshot wounds, while a fourth was injured while trying to escape.
Heroic Police Response Saves Lives
As chaos unfolded, law enforcement agencies from across the region rushed to the hospital. Upon arrival, officers encountered Archangel-Ortiz holding a hostage at gunpoint, the victim’s hands bound with zip ties. Acting swiftly to neutralize the threat, police opened fire, killing the gunman.
“It is absolutely clear, and beyond any doubt, that the officers were justified in using deadly force,” Barker stated. “This was a dangerous and targeted attack, and their bravery saved many lives.”
Motive and Background of the Shooter
Authorities confirmed that Archangel-Ortiz had previously visited the ICU with another individual, though it remains unclear who that person was. Investigators are working to determine a possible motive behind the attack.
Court records show that Archangel-Ortiz had a history of legal trouble, including previous short-term incarcerations. Earlier this month, he was cited by West York Borough Police for driving with a revoked or suspended license. However, there was no indication that he posed an imminent threat prior to Saturday’s deadly assault.
Community Mourns Fallen Officer
The law enforcement community and local residents are grieving the loss of Officer Andrew Duarte, the first West York Borough Police officer to be killed in the line of duty since the department’s founding in 1917.
“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 Pennsylvania Fraternal Order of Police.
Lawmakers and Officials Respond
In a public statement, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro praised the swift actions of law enforcement and mourned the loss of Officer Duarte.
“Because of their work, lives were saved here today at UPMC Memorial Hospital. Sadly, we lost one of those heroes today,” Shapiro said. “Officer Duarte was the best of us.”
The governor also confirmed that his office is coordinating with the White House on the situation and that mental health resources will be made available for those affected.
Attorney General Dave Sunday echoed the sentiments, calling the attack “unimaginable.”
“Such violence and trauma in a place dedicated to hope and healing is heartbreaking,” he stated. “Our prayers go out to Officer Duarte’s family, his fellow officers, and the hospital staff members who were wounded.”
Hospital Operations and Support for Families
UPMC Memorial confirmed that no patients were harmed in the incident, and the hospital is once again secure. However, authorities have asked off-duty employees not to report to work unless necessary.
For families seeking information about their loved ones, UPMC has established a hotline at 717-849-5338 and 717-849-5334. Those arriving at the hospital have been directed to the OSS building across the street.
A Community in Mourning
York County residents and hospital staff members continue to process the tragedy, coming together to support one another. As authorities investigate the full circumstances behind the attack, the community remains united in remembering the fallen officer and offering prayers for those injured.
Stay tuned for further updates as more details emerge about this heartbreaking incident.
