York, PA – The city of York, Pennsylvania, is reeling in the aftermath of a tragic and violent incident that unfolded at UPMC Memorial Hospital on Saturday morning. Authorities have identified the shooter as 49-year-old Diogenes Archangel Ortiz, whose rampage left multiple people injured and claimed the life of West York Borough Police Officer Andrew Duarte. The shocking events that transpired at the hospital have sent waves of grief and outrage throughout the community, leaving many questioning how such a tragedy could have occurred in a place meant for healing and care.

The Tragic Timeline of Events

According to law enforcement officials, the horrifying ordeal began at approximately 10:35 a.m. when Ortiz entered the hospital armed with a handgun and carrying zip ties. His destination was the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where he took several medical staff members hostage. Witnesses recall the terror of that moment, describing how the normally calm and quiet hospital corridors were suddenly filled with chaos, fear, and the sound of gunfire.

Within moments of the initial 911 call, emergency responders, including local police, Pennsylvania State Police, and specialized tactical units, converged on the scene. Officers moved swiftly to contain the situation, but not before Ortiz fired multiple rounds, striking six individuals. Among the wounded were three medical staff members and three police officers, including Officer Andrew Duarte, who tragically succumbed to his injuries on site.

The Confrontation with Police

When police engaged Ortiz, the situation rapidly escalated into an intense standoff. Officers attempted to negotiate with the suspect, urging him to release the hostages and surrender. However, Ortiz remained armed and aggressive, reportedly zip-tying one hospital employee’s hands together and holding them at gunpoint in a hospital hallway.

Law enforcement had no choice but to take decisive action. In a swift and coordinated response, officers confronted Ortiz, ultimately fatally shooting him. Governor Josh Shapiro and State Attorney General Dave Sunday later confirmed that the officers’ use of deadly force was justified and necessary to prevent further casualties.

The Aftermath and Impact on the Community

The tragedy has left a deep emotional scar on the York community, particularly among first responders and hospital staff who found themselves at the heart of the violence. West York Borough Police issued a heartfelt statement mourning the loss of Officer Duarte:

“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.”

In the days following the shooting, the police department has invited community members to pay their respects to Officer Duarte by laying flowers at 1381 West Poplar Street, West York Borough, Pennsylvania. A moment of silence was held in his honor, with fellow officers and local officials acknowledging his bravery and ultimate sacrifice.

Hospital Response and Victim Treatment

In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, WellSpan York Hospital received five individuals from the incident at UPMC Memorial for medical evaluation and treatment. A statement released by the hospital read:

“Shortly after 11:00 a.m., WellSpan York Hospital clinical teams were notified of an active shooter situation with injuries at a nearby hospital. At approximately 12:00 p.m., the first patient arrived from this incident for treatment at the hospital. Emergency Department teams have evaluated five individuals for treatment and we do not expect to receive any additional patients. Due to HIPAA privacy regulations, we are unable to disclose specific patient details.”

UPMC Memorial also issued a public statement confirming that no patients were harmed during the incident. However, the hospital remains on divert status as law enforcement continues its investigation. Hospital administrators have expressed profound gratitude for the quick and heroic response from local, state, and federal agencies who intervened to restore safety to the facility.

A family support hotline has been established for those seeking information about loved ones: 717-849-5338 or 717-849-5334. Families arriving on-site have been directed to the OSS building parking lot across the street from the hospital for assistance.

Official Statements from Government Leaders

Governor Josh Shapiro took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express his condolences and provide updates on the situation:

“I’ve been briefed on the tragic shooting at UPMC Memorial Hospital in York County and I am on my way to the scene. The hospital is now secure, and members of the @PAStatePolice and @PEMAHQ are on the ground responding alongside our local and federal partners. Follow the direction of local authorities and stay clear of the area. We will share more updates as they become available.”

State Senator Dawn Keefer and State Representative Seth Grove also released a joint statement, emphasizing their sorrow over the tragedy while extending gratitude to emergency responders:

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic shooting at UPMC this morning. Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and all those affected by this senseless act of violence.

We are immensely grateful to our local law enforcement departments, Pennsylvania State Police, UPMC officers, Pennsylvania Game Wardens, York County Sheriffs, EMS, and all other emergency responders for their swift actions in securing the scene, treating the wounded, and ensuring the safety of our community. Their dedication and bravery in moments of crisis are truly commendable.”

State Representative Carol Hill-Evans echoed these sentiments in a Facebook post:

“I am shocked and saddened at the tragic shooting at UPMC Memorial in York. A hospital is a place of hope and healing, not of fear and terror. Please join me in praying for the family of the heroic police officer who laid down his life to defend his community and thanking the health care professionals and emergency service personnel who put patients and their families first every day.”

Ongoing Investigation and Future Steps

Although the immediate threat has been neutralized, the investigation into the shooting remains ongoing. Authorities are now focused on piecing together the details surrounding Ortiz’s actions, his motives, and any potential warning signs that may have preceded the attack.

Officials have urged the public to remain patient as forensic teams comb through evidence and law enforcement conducts interviews with witnesses and victims. A press conference is expected in the coming days to provide further details about the shooter’s background, potential motivations, and any additional security measures that may be implemented at local hospitals in response to the tragedy.

In the wake of this senseless violence, York County residents are uniting in grief, remembrance, and a renewed commitment to supporting one another. While the scars of this tragedy will take time to heal, the resilience of the community remains unwavering.

This remains a developing story, and further updates will be provided as new information emerges.