Red Lion, Pennsylvania – Funeral arrangements have been confirmed for Patrolman Andrew Duarte, the West Yorkshire police officer who tragically lost his life while on duty over the weekend. Duarte’s body has been transported to Lehigh Valley Hospital for an autopsy following the incident at UPMC Memorial. The suspect, Archangel Ortiz, entered the hospital armed with a handgun and zip ties, taking multiple staff members hostage before a confrontation ensued, resulting in Officer Duarte’s death, with two other officers injured.
Officer Duarte, who had served in law enforcement for over six years, previously worked in Denver, Colorado, before joining the West York Borough Police Department. Highly regarded for his dedication to impaired driving enforcement, Duarte was recently honored with the Mothers Against Drunk Driving Hero Award. A solemn procession was held in honor of Officer Duarte, with officers from various departments paying their respects as his body was escorted to Lehigh Valley for further examination.
In the wake of this tragedy, the community is coming together to support Duarte’s family and fellow officers. The funeral service for Patrolman Duarte is scheduled for this Friday at 1 p.m. at Living Word Community Church in Red Lion. Due to venue capacity restrictions, seating inside the church will be reserved for family, friends, law enforcement personnel, dignitaries, and special guests only. The service will be livestreamed for the public and non-sworn first responders to participate in paying their respects.
Before the funeral service, a police procession will honor Officer Duarte, where law enforcement officers operating police vehicles with emergency lighting will gather at the Olewiler and Hefner Funeral Home in Red Lion. Those not participating in the procession can join at the church for a viewing and final salute. In lieu of flowers, Duarte’s family has requested donations to be made to specific organizations in memory of his service to the community.
As the community mourns the loss of Officer Andrew Duarte, the outpouring of support and solidarity serves as a testament to his dedication and sacrifice in serving and protecting others. The impact of this tragic event resonates deeply, highlighting the risks that law enforcement officers face daily in safeguarding their communities.