On February 22, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded at UPMC Memorial Hospital in York, Pennsylvania, resulting in the death of a police officer and injuries to several hospital staff members.
Incident Overview
The assailant, identified as 49-year-old Diogenes Archangel-Ortiz, entered the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) armed with a pistol and zip ties. He took multiple staff members hostage, leading to a tense standoff. During the confrontation, Archangel-Ortiz fatally shot West York Borough Police Department Officer Andrew Duarte and injured five others, including two police officers, a doctor, a nurse, and a custodian. The gunman was subsequently killed in a shootout with law enforcement.
Motive and Background
Authorities believe Archangel-Ortiz had recent contact with the ICU for a medical purpose involving another individual, though specific details remain confidential due to privacy concerns. Physician assistant Lester Mendoza, who interacted with Archangel-Ortiz prior to the incident, described him as “broken” upon learning of a loved one’s death in the ICU, suggesting that grief may have been a significant factor in his actions.
Victims and Aftermath
Officer Duarte, a law enforcement veteran who joined the West York Police Department in 2022 after five years with the Denver Police Department, was honored posthumously for his bravery and commitment to public service. The injured hospital workers are reported to be in stable condition. In response to the incident, a memorial was established at the West York Police Department, and Governor Josh Shapiro ordered flags to be flown at half-mast across Pennsylvania in honor of Officer Duarte.
Implications for Healthcare Security
This incident underscores the escalating violence faced by healthcare workers in the United States. Hospitals are increasingly implementing enhanced security measures, including metal detectors and visitor screenings, to protect staff and patients. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that healthcare and social assistance employees have incurred nearly three-quarters of nonfatal assaults in the private sector in recent years, highlighting the critical need for improved safety protocols in healthcare settings.
The tragic events at UPMC Memorial Hospital serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities present in healthcare environments and the profound impact such incidents have on communities.
