Hospital Hostage Situation Ends in Tragedy: Gunman Kills Officer in Shootout
West Manchester Township, PA – Authorities are investigating the motive behind a deadly hospital shooting that unfolded on Saturday, leaving one police officer dead and multiple others injured.
The Incident:
Around 10:35 a.m. on Saturday, Diogenes Archangel-Ortiz, 50, of York, entered UPMC Memorial Hospital with a semiautomatic handgun concealed in his bag. He proceeded to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where he took several staff members hostage.
Archangel-Ortiz fired multiple shots, striking a doctor, a nurse, and a custodian. He also bound a nurse’s hands with zip ties. A fourth staff member sustained injuries in an attempt to escape the gunfire.
Police Response:
UPMC police officers responded to the ICU but were forced to retreat after being fired upon by Archangel-Ortiz. Officers from 10 different jurisdictions arrived at the hospital to assist.
As officers attempted to enter the unit, Archangel-Ortiz again pointed his gun at them and ordered them to leave. After unsuccessful attempts to negotiate with the gunman, he emerged from the ICU holding a staffer hostage, her hands still bound.
Officer Killed:
Police had no choice but to open fire, fatally wounding Archangel-Ortiz. However, the investigation is still ongoing to determine whether Officer Andrew Duarte was shot by Archangel-Ortiz or by friendly fire from other officers.
Officer Duarte had served with the West York Borough Police Department since June 2022. He was posthumously commended by Governor Josh Shapiro for his dedication and service.
Injuries and Investigation:
The doctor sustained a graze wound, while the nurse, custodian, and two injured officers were hospitalized in stable condition.
The York County District Attorney’s office is leading the investigation to determine the gunman’s motive and uncover any prior contact he may have had with the hospital or its staff. According to court records, Archangel-Ortiz did not have a significant criminal history.
Community Response:
The community of West Manchester Township and beyond has been shaken by the tragedy. Dozens of firefighters and police officers from across York County gathered Saturday night to honor Officer Duarte and demonstrate their support for his family and colleagues.
Fire engines lined a street, and two trucks raised their ladders to form an archway over the road as Duarte’s body was transported. Governor Shapiro expressed his condolences and praised Duarte for his service.
The hospital shooting has once again highlighted the risks faced by healthcare workers and law enforcement officers. Authorities continue their investigation to gain a full understanding of the incident and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
