Red Lion, PA — The community of Red Lion and officers from surrounding areas gathered on Friday to mourn the loss of Officer Andrew Duarte, a beloved member of the West York Borough Police Department, who was killed during a tragic incident at UPMC Memorial Hospital. Officer Duarte’s funeral service took place at Living Word Community Church, marking a solemn day for those touched by his bravery and dedication.
Officer Duarte, who fell in the line of duty on February 22, was remembered for his commitment to public safety during a hostage situation that unraveled in the hospital’s ICU, where he was fatally wounded. The crisis began when an armed man, identified as Diogenes Archangel-Ortiz, entered the hospital and took several medical staff hostage. Archangel-Ortiz, reportedly struggling with the recent loss of a terminally ill family member under the hospital’s care, turned a routine morning into a scene of terror.
Eyewitness accounts from hospital staff highlight the horror of the day. Jessica Breighner, a nurse caught in the ordeal, shared through a social media account posted by her husband, Jason Huff, that the sound of the gun being loaded was harrowing. Another nurse, Tosha Trostle, described a chaotic fight for her life as she was bodily pinned by the shooter before law enforcement’s intervention enabled her escape.
The standoff ended when SWAT teams entered the ICU, confronting Archangel-Ortiz and bringing the siege to a close amid gunfire that left bullet casings clattering across the floor. The rapid response by police prevented further loss of life but ultimately claimed one of their own, with Officer Duarte succumbing to his injuries.
Following the incident, there has been heightened security concerns at UPMC, spotlighting the lack of metal detectors at hospital entrances. The event has sparked a significant call from the public and hospital employees alike for enhanced security measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Law enforcement personnel and emergency responders from various counties converged to pay respect to Officer Duarte. Prior to his funeral service, a poignant scene unfolded at a local Rutter’s, where officers shared memories and laughter — a testament to the strong bonds within the police community. They stood in solidarity, reflecting on the perils of their duty and the sacrifice of their fallen colleague.
Officer Duarte’s death is not only a personal loss to his family and friends but also a stark reminder of the risks our law enforcement officers face each day to keep our communities safe. His heroism and the dramatic circumstances of his passing add to the continuing discussion on the need for better protective measures in public institutions, ensuring that those who commit their lives to public safety are themselves safeguarded in their line of duty.