York, Pennsylvania, October 8, 2025
News Summary
In a tragic shooting incident during a hostage crisis at UPMC Memorial Hospital in Pennsylvania, Officer Andrew Duarte lost his life due to accidental gunfire. Stray pellets from another officer’s shotgun tragically struck him. Following this incident, significant changes in police protocols regarding the use of shotguns have been implemented, including an outright ban on their use by on-duty officers. The investigation into the circumstances continues, reflecting growing concerns over police safety measures and the increasing violence in public spaces, particularly hospitals.
York, Pennsylvania – In a tragic incident on February 22, 2025, West York Police Officer Andrew Duarte was fatally shot by stray pellets from a shotgun that was discharged by another officer during a response to a hostage crisis at UPMC Memorial Hospital. The autopsy revealed that the officer was struck in the left chest and left arm by buckshot, which consists of two quarter-inch spherical projectiles that were removed from his body.
The gunfire erupted as law enforcement officers were dealing with an armed suspect, identified as Diogenes Archangel-Ortiz, who was holding a healthcare worker hostage. The situation escalated quickly, resulting in another officer sustaining injuries from pellets that struck his hand, as detailed by York County District Attorney Tim Barker. Authorities responded to the threat by fatally shooting Archangel-Ortiz during the exchange of gunfire.
In light of Officer Duarte’s death, the Pennsylvania State Police have taken significant steps to alter their operational protocol regarding shotguns. Just six days after the incident, a new policy was enacted on February 28, 2025, which prohibits on-duty officers from carrying shotguns. Although officials did not elaborate on the reasoning behind this decision, it has been reported that the state police are looking into procuring additional rifles to improve overall operational readiness.
Chief Corey Merwede of the Penn Township Police Department has stated that the department will no longer use buckshot ammunition, a direct response influenced by the tragic event. This change echoes a broader trend among law enforcement in York County, where several police departments have either ceased the use of shotguns or are transitioning to less-lethal options such as beanbag rounds in the years following the incident. Notably, the Springettsbury Township Police discontinued shotgun use back in 2016, and the Newberry Township Police ceased all shotgun usage altogether at the beginning of 2025.
Additional local law enforcement agencies, including the York County Sheriff’s Office, have also phased out shotgun use in recent years. Conversely, departments such as the West Manchester Township Police continue to utilize both buckshot and slugs. Hellam Township Police maintain both lethal shotguns and less-lethal alternatives, with some officers expressing a preference for rifles in tactical scenarios.
The ongoing review of practices following Officer Duarte’s death has left some questions unanswered. The investigative unit of the York County District Attorney’s Office has yet to disclose whether they are changing protocols for shotgun use in emergencies as a result of the incident. Furthermore, a Right-to-Know request revealed that the West Manchester Township Police initially delayed providing invoices for their shotgun ammunition but complied after an appeal was submitted.
In addition to the operational changes in police departments, the incident has raised safety concerns surrounding UPMC Memorial Hospital itself, prompting the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to conduct an investigation following safety complaints lodged against the facility.
In a final act of bravery, Officer Duarte ran toward the threat during the hostage situation, highlighting the dedication and courage often displayed by law enforcement officers. This tragic event underscores the concerning trend of gun violence in hospitals across the U.S., which increasingly find themselves potential targets for violent acts.
Key Changes in Police Policies
- Pennsylvania State Police prohibits shotguns for on-duty officers.
- Penn Township Police Department stops using buckshot ammunition.
- Several departments in York County are transitioning to less-lethal options like beanbag rounds.
Background on Officer Duarte
Officer Duarte’s final actions during the hostage crisis have been widely recognized, emphasizing his courage and commitment to public safety. The investigation into the incident continues as local departments adapt their policies to prevent future tragedies.
Safety Investigation
OSHA’s involvement following safety complaints against UPMC Memorial Hospital reflects the broader implications of the shooting incident, as hospitals face rising threats of violence and must ensure the safety of both patients and staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the shooting of Officer Andrew Duarte?
Officer Andrew Duarte was fatally shot by stray pellets from a shotgun discharged by another officer while responding to a gunman at UPMC Memorial Hospital.
What changes have been made to police policies following the incident?
Following Officer Duarte’s death, the Pennsylvania State Police prohibited on-duty officers from carrying shotguns, while the Penn Township Police Department stopped using buckshot ammunition.
What investigations are currently ongoing related to the shooting incident?
The York County District Attorney’s Office is reviewing protocols regarding shotgun usage in emergencies and OSHA is conducting an investigation following safety complaints against UPMC Memorial Hospital.
Key Features of Policy Changes and Incident
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | February 22, 2025 |
| Officer Involved | Officer Andrew Duarte of West York Police |
| Type of Incident | Fatal shooting during hostage situation |
| Suspect | Diogenes Archangel-Ortiz |
| Immediate Policy Changes | Prohibition of shotguns for on-duty Pennsylvania State Police officers |
| Additional Changes | Penn Township Police to cease using buckshot ammunition |
| Ongoing Investigations | OSHA investigation into UPMC Memorial Hospital and review by York County District Attorney’s Office |
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Additional Resources
- York Daily Record: Status of York County Police Agency Policies
- York Dispatch: Troopers Abandon Shotguns
- WGAL: Pennsylvania State Police Shotgun Ban
- Wikipedia: Police and Fire Controls in the United States
- NBC Philadelphia: Officer Killed at UPMC Memorial Hospital
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
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