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Authorities report that a gunman took medical personnel hostage, fatally shooting a police officer and injuring five others at a hospital in south-central Pennsylvania on Saturday. It is believed that the suspect may have visited the hospital prior to this tragic event.

The suspect has been identified as 49-year-old Diogenes Archangel-Ortiz, who was killed in a confrontation with law enforcement, according to official statements.

District Attorney Tim Barker revealed in a press conference that Archangel-Ortiz had interacted with the ICU earlier in the week for a medical matter concerning another person. However, Barker withheld details about that individual, citing privacy and the ongoing investigation.

The motive for the assault at UPMC Memorial Hospital in York is still under investigation, but Barker indicated that the shooting seemed to be specifically aimed at the ICU.

“We do not have further information at this time. However, it is evident that arriving at a hospital equipped with a firearm and zip ties, then heading directly to a designated area to carry out these actions signifies a predetermined target,” Barker stated.

Almost immediately upon arriving, Archangel-Ortiz took several hospital staff members hostage, including one employee held at gunpoint with her hands restrained by zip ties, while police attempted to negotiate with him.

As the gunman moved into the hallway still holding the ICU employee and making threats, police opened fire, fatally shooting him. During this exchange, Archangel-Ortiz also shot three officers, resulting in one officer’s death.

“The use of lethal force was necessary to prevent further loss of life, despite the sacrifice of one of their own,” Barker remarked.

The two other officers injured are currently in stable condition, as confirmed by Barker.

A doctor, a nurse, and a custodian from the intensive care unit suffered gunshot wounds but are stable, with a fourth staff member sustaining injuries from a fall. There were no injuries reported among patients, as stated by UPMC Memorial spokesperson Susan Manko.

Investigators are currently reviewing security camera footage and interviewing officers involved, along with witnesses present during the incident, as per the district attorney’s announcement.

The officer who tragically lost his life was West York Borough Police Department Officer Andrew Duarte, as confirmed by his department on Facebook.

Duarte joined the West York Police Department in 2022, following five years with the Denver Police Department. He was recognized with a Mothers Against Drunk Driving hero award in 2021 for his exceptional work in combating impaired driving, according to CNN affiliate KKTV.

“He was an individual who donned the badge with pride and endeavored to safeguard his community,” stated Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, who met with Duarte’s family. “His life of public service was tragically cut short, and we are immensely grateful for his dedication.”

The Fraternal Order of Police expressed profound sorrow over the loss of “a hero,” as noted by State Lodge President Joseph Regan and York County Lodge #73 President Trent Bushman in a released statement.

“Officer Duarte’s courageous actions and unwavering dedication to law enforcement exemplify the selflessness of individuals committed to protecting their communities,” the statement continued.

This report was contributed to by CNN’s Alaa Elassar, Taylor Galgano, Kia Fatahi, Sharif Paget, Sarah Dewberry, and Natalie Barr.