A police officer lost his life on Saturday after responding to a shooting at UPMC Memorial Hospital near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
The incident, which saw a gunman take hostages and injure at least five others, ended when the suspect was shot dead.
Officer Andrew Duarte of the West York Borough Police Department, was killed at the scene. Authorities identified the
shooter as 49-year-old Diogenes Archangel-Ortiz, though his motive remains unknown.
“The threat has now been neutralized, and an investigation is underway,” said Ted Czech, public information officer for York County’s Office of Emergency Management.
At a press conference, York County District Attorney Tim Barker stated that Archangel-Ortiz entered the hospital carrying a bag containing a handgun and zip ties. He then made his way to the Intensive Care Unit.
“Archangel Ortiz held hostage members of the UPMC staff. In total, he discharged his firearm, injuring three staff members,” Barker explained. “A doctor was grazed, and a nurse and a custodian were also shot. Thankfully, all are now in stable condition.”
The hospital confirmed reports of an active shooter, stating that law enforcement swiftly intervened, securing the facility and apprehending the gunman.
As investigations continue, Duarte’s loved ones struggle to cope with the tragedy. “I’m proud, but I’m also angry that it had to be him,” Morris admitted.
Outside the police department, candles, flowers, and handwritten notes were left in Duarte’s memory, a testament to the impact he had on his community.
