Officer killed after a gunman took hostages at a Pennsylvania hospital

A Pennsylvania police officer was killed, and several others were wounded after a gunman took hostages inside the intensive care unit at UPMC Memorial Hospital in York on Saturday. The suspect, identified as 49-year-old Diogenes Archangel-Ortiz, entered the hospital armed with a pistol and zip ties, targeting medical staff before engaging in a shootout with law enforcement.

Officer Andrew Duarte of the West York Borough Police Department was fatally shot, while two other officers and three hospital staff members—including a doctor, a nurse, and a custodian—were wounded. A fourth staff member was injured in a fall. Authorities confirmed that Archangel-Ortiz had prior contact with the ICU earlier in the week due to a medical matter involving another individual.

Law enforcement intervened after Archangel-Ortiz held a female hospital worker at gunpoint with her hands bound. Officers opened fire, killing him. York County District Attorney Tim Barker stated that the police response was justified.

Duarte, a former Denver police officer, was honored for his dedication to law enforcement. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro met with his family and fellow officers, expressing gratitude for their bravery in protecting others.

Source: AP News