Barker stated that law enforcement was summoned to the scene and subsequently engaged the suspect in an effort to de-escalate the situation. However, at a certain juncture, the suspect exited the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and proceeded down a hallway brandishing a firearm while holding a staff member, as reported by officials. Barker indicated that the officers were left with no alternative and were compelled to open fire, resulting in the fatal shooting of the armed suspect. Three officers sustained gunshot wounds, with one tragically succumbing to their injuries, according to Barker. As of Sunday, the other two officers were reported to be in stable condition, as confirmed by officials.
Barker mentioned that an investigation would be conducted to ascertain whether Duarte was struck by gunfire from Archangel-Ortiz or from “friendly fire” originating from the other officers.
The individuals who fell victim to the hospital shooting included:
– A doctor who was shot
– A nurse who was shot
– A custodian who was shot
– An employee who was injured after falling
– Three police officers, all of whom sustained gunshot wounds, with one losing their life
The officer who tragically lost his life in the hospital shooting was identified as 30-year-old Andrew Duarte. Duarte had been employed by the West York Borough Police Department since June 2022 and had previously served as an officer with the Denver Police Department for five years. The local police department expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, “Our West York Borough family is suffering a painful loss today in response to a tragic mutual aid call earlier today in West Manchester Township at UPMC. Our hearts break at the innocent loss of life.”
Governor Josh Shapiro praised Officer Duarte, remarking, “He is to be commended for a life of service, albeit one cut too short.”
The gunman involved in the hospital shooting was identified as 49-year-old Diogenes Archangel-Ortiz. Court records revealed that Archangel-Ortiz did not have a significant criminal history, with previous charges including driving on a suspended license earlier in the month and harassment and contempt for a court order in October 2016.
The motive behind the hospital shooting remained under investigation as of Monday morning. Officials disclosed that the gunman had visited a friend at the hospital in the days leading up to the shooting and had interacted with hospital staff. During a briefing on Saturday, Barker refrained from providing specific details regarding the hospital visit.
By Mike Argento and Natalie Neysa Alund, a senior reporter for USA TODAY. For inquiries, contact nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on X @nataliealund. This article was originally published on USA TODAY: Hospital shooting in York, Pennsylvania: Officer killed, 6 hurt.
