A tragic incident unfolded at a hospital in central Pennsylvania on Saturday, resulting in the death of a police officer and a gunman, as confirmed by authorities. Officer Andrew Duarte of the West York Borough Police Department was fatally shot while responding to a call about an active threat at UPMC Hospital in York, Pennsylvania, around 10:43 a.m.
The West York Borough Police Department expressed their sorrow over the loss of Officer Duarte, describing him as a hero in a social media post. The incident has left the community in mourning.
The Pennsylvania State Police confirmed that no patients were harmed during the incident. The five-story, 104-bed hospital was swiftly secured following the shooting. However, it remains uncertain if there were any other casualties.
The shooter was confirmed dead, and the authorities assured the public that there was no further threat. The hospital was declared safe and secure.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Susan Manko, the Vice President of Public Relations for UPMC, advised off-duty employees to remain at home and directed visitors to park in a lot across the hospital.
The investigation into the incident is being supported by state and local authorities, the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro was briefed on the situation and arrived at the hospital shortly after 1 p.m. on Saturday.
State officials have announced that a press conference will be held to provide further details about the incident.