York, Pennsylvania – Workers injured during a tragic shooting incident at UPMC Memorial Hospital have been reported “medically stable” as the facility continues to restrict visitor access, according to hospital officials.
The incident occurred when a man, armed with a pistol and zip ties, entered the hospital’s intensive care unit, taking staff members hostage before engaging in a shootout with police that resulted in his death and that of a police officer.
Among the injured are a doctor, a nurse, a custodian, and two police officers. Additionally, another hospital staff member sustained injuries following a fall during the chaos. Hospital representatives confirmed that those wounded are "progressing in their recovery" but emphasized that visitor access will remain limited as security measures are heightened across the medical campus.
In a statement, hospital officials acknowledged the importance of family support in the healing process and expressed their commitment to reinstating visitor privileges as soon as possible.
Investigators are actively working to determine the motive behind the attack. Early reports indicate that the shooter, identified as Diogenes Archangel-Ortiz, had visited the hospital’s ICU earlier in the week for a medical-related visit involving another individual, suggesting a targeted approach toward the medical staff.
The tragic events escalated when police officers confronted the shooter, who was holding a female staff member at gunpoint with her hands bound. The officer killed in the incident has been identified as Andrew Duarte of the West York Borough Police Department. A veteran of law enforcement, Duarte had joined the department in 2022 after serving five years with another police force and was recognized for his commitment to community safety.
In a show of respect, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of Officer Duarte. The governor expressed gratitude for the bravery of law enforcement, stating, “Their willingness to run toward danger helped save the lives of others.”
UPMC Memorial Hospital, which opened in 2019 and serves a city of approximately 40,000 residents, is part of a growing concern regarding gun violence in healthcare settings. Recent statistics reveal that the healthcare sector has become one of the most violent work environments in the nation, with staff experiencing more nonfatal injuries from workplace violence than in any other industry, as reported by health officials.
As the investigation continues, the community remains united in support for the victims and those affected by this incident, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced safety measures in healthcare environments nationwide.
