University President Jon Anderson sent this message to the PennWest campus community on Feb. 23.

Yesterday, tragedy struck in York County during an active shooting incident involving a hostage situation at UPMC Memorial Hospital in West Manchester Township.

We are deeply saddened that West York Police Officer Andrew Duarte, a 2016 graduate of PennWest California’s Criminal Justice program, lost his life in the line of duty.

Officer Duarte was a valued member of our PennWest California alumni family, and his service and dedication to his community will not be forgotten.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues. We stand with them in honoring his sacrifice and commitment to keeping others safe.