A tragic event unfolded over the weekend at UPMC Memorial Hospital in York, Pennsylvania, as Diogenes Archangel Ortiz allegedly took ICU staff members hostage, resulting in loss of life and highlighting concerns over hospital safety.
Key Takeaways
- A gunman took several staff members hostage at UPMC Memorial Hospital.
- Officer Andrew Duarte was killed, and several were injured.
- The shooter, previously known to the hospital, reportedly had a handgun and zip ties.
- This incident adds to the worrying trend of gun violence in hospitals.
- Governor Shapiro praised the bravery of responders.
The Hostage Situation and Its Impact
On a routine Saturday morning, chaos erupted at UPMC Memorial Hospital when Diogenes Archangel Ortiz, armed with a pistol and zip ties, allegedly entered the ICU. The subsequent exchange resulted in the untimely death of Officer Andrew Duarte and left three hospital workers injured along with two officers. These injuries, including a gunshot wound to an ICU doctor, a nurse, and a custodian, along with a fourth employee injured from a fall, underscored the tragedy.
The officer slain, Andrew Duarte, was a veteran law enforcement officer with previous service in Denver. Officer Duarte had joined the West York Borough Police Department in 2022 after five years with the Denver Police. The community mourns as they prepare to pay respects to this fallen officer at a designated location, illustrating the profound loss felt across York County.
Shooter’s Background and Hospital’s Response
Diogenes Archangel Ortiz had previously contacted the hospital’s ICU, raising questions about potential red flags missed before the incident. Ortiz allegedly arrived with a handgun and zip ties, proceeding directly to the ICU, targeting staff. The quick response by UPMC officers and local police departments prevented further casualties, with the district attorney later confirming the use of deadly force was justified. Ortiz was “neutralized,” ending a terrifying ordeal.
Furthermore, UPMC Memorial Hospital, a 104-bed facility, initiated immediate safety measures, activating a hotline for concerned families and ensuring no patients were injured. Non-scheduled employees were asked to remain home while the hospital remained on divert. This incident raises crucial discussions about safety measures and protocols in healthcare facilities nationwide.
Violence in Medical Facilities
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro condemned the attack, labeling it as cowardly while commending the bravery of both police and healthcare workers. He noted, “Here in York County today we saw the very best and the very worst in humanity.”
Hospital violence is an ongoing concern, reportedly placing healthcare workers in one of the most violent professions.
Sources
- Officer killed after gunman takes hostages at Pennsylvania hospital
- Gunman dead after taking hostages, killing officer at UPMC York; 5 others injured
- Officer Dead After Gunman Takes ICU Staff Hostage at PA Hospital
