YORK COUNTY, Pa. — A distressing day unfolded at UPMC Memorial Hospital on February 22, as a gunman entered the facility, resulting in tragic consequences for the York community. The incident, which transpired in under two hours, altered lives and left an indelible mark on the local landscape, particularly following the loss of West York Police Officer Andrew Duarte, who was killed while responding to the crisis.
At approximately 10:45 a.m., the assailant entered the hospital with a firearm and zip ties, immediately targeting the intensive care unit where staff were held hostage. During the chaos, three hospital employees—a doctor, a nurse, and a custodian—were shot, with a fourth person injured while attempting to escape.
UPMC officers quickly arrived on the scene and confronted the shooter. Tensions escalated further when the suspect dragged a staff member into the hallway, threatening her life at gunpoint. In a decisive response, law enforcement officers opened fire, fatally wounding the gunman. While the standoff ended with the assailant’s death, three officers sustained injuries from gunfire during the exchange.
By noon, emergency medical teams began to assess and treat those injured in the incident, including the first patient transported from the hospital. Tragically, Officer Duarte lost his life shortly after noon from injuries sustained in the line of duty; he was just days shy of his 30th birthday. The coroner’s report later confirmed that his death was classified as a homicide due to ballistic injuries.
In the wake of the shooting, UPMC released a statement confirming the situation and expressing condolences to the victims and their families. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, who was briefed on the events, visited the scene later in the day, joining community leaders to address the public and offer support.
A memorial emerged outside the West York Borough Police Department, allowing community members to pay their respects to Officer Duarte. Tragically, his mother, Nancy Duarte Matarese, poignantly reflected on her loss, expressing the heartache of not being able to speak to her son again.
On February 27, a celebration of life was held for Officer Duarte at Living Word Community Church. The West York Police Chief shared poignant details about Duarte’s final moments, highlighting his commitment to duty as he assisted a fellow officer in distress.
In response to the tragic events, UPMC has announced enhanced security measures across its facilities as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the incident. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is currently examining the hospital’s protocols in light of the shooting that injured several staff members.
The York community continues to grapple with the aftermath of this harrowing situation, united in remembrance of Officer Duarte’s dedication and sacrifice in the line of duty.