A tragic incident occurred at a Pennsylvania hospital, resulting in the loss of a police officer’s life. The shooting took place at UPMC Memorial hospital in York, where the suspected gunman was also killed. The fallen officer was identified as Andrew Duarte from the West York Borough Police Department, who was responding to a mutual aid call at the time of the shooting. The West York Borough Manager, Shawn Mauck, expressed deep sorrow over the officer’s death, stating that the entire community is grieving this devastating loss.
Officials at UPMC Memorial confirmed that no patients were harmed during the incident and assured that law enforcement was present at the scene, handling the situation. Andrew Duarte, a seasoned law enforcement officer, had recently joined the West York Borough Police Department after serving with the Denver Police Department in Colorado. His LinkedIn profile highlighted his dedication and achievements in law enforcement, including receiving a prestigious “hero award” from Mothers Against Drunk Driving for his outstanding work in impaired driving enforcement.
In response to the shooting, the hospital urged non-scheduled employees to stay home, while families of patients were directed to report to a designated area nearby. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, upon being briefed about the situation, was en route to the hospital to assess the situation. The governor confirmed that the hospital was secure following the tragic events that unfolded.
UPMC Memorial, a prominent healthcare facility in York, has been a pillar of the community since its opening in 2019. The shocking shooting is part of a concerning trend of gun violence affecting hospitals across the United States. Healthcare workers face increased risks of workplace violence, as highlighted by incidents like the shooting at New Hampshire’s state psychiatric hospital in 2023 and the tragic events at a Dallas hospital in 2022.
The violent nature of these incidents underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures and support for healthcare professionals who tirelessly serve their communities. As the nation grapples with the impact of such tragedies, it is imperative to prioritize the safety and well-being of those working in the healthcare sector.
