Jose Duran Obituary, Death – The Wayne County Coroner’s Office has released the identity of the public safety officer killed in a shooting at a gated community over the weekend. Officials confirmed Monday that the victim was 55-year-old Jose Duran of Tobyhanna.
The deadly incident occurred Sunday afternoon in The Hideout, a residential community near Lake Ariel. According to Pennsylvania State Police, Duran was fatally shot by 26-year-old Lucas Gartrell, who also stands accused of shooting his own parents moments earlier.
Authorities say Gartrell’s parents, Lisa and Robert Gartrell, survived the attack but were critically injured. Both were airlifted to a hospital where they underwent surgery on Monday. As of the latest update from Capt. Michael Walsh of Troop R, the pair were reported to be in stable condition.
Residents of The Hideout told investigators they saw Gartrell carrying a rifle around the time gunshots were heard. The criminal complaint filed late Sunday night revealed that witnesses had informed police Gartrell suffers from bipolar disorder, though it remains unclear what specifically led to the outburst of violence.
Following the shootings, Gartrell attempted to flee the community on a motorized bike as state troopers swarmed the area. He was quickly spotted by Sgt. Michael Felsman, commander of the Honesdale state police station, who gave chase. Gartrell crashed the bike near Miller Road, allowing officers to move in and place him under arrest.
When troopers searched Gartrell, they discovered he was carrying several knives, ammunition, and gun magazines. He reportedly told investigators he had left his rifle at his residence.
Charges filed against Gartrell are extensive. He is facing criminal homicide, first-degree murder of a law enforcement officer, two counts of attempted homicide, and multiple counts of aggravated assault. These charges reflect both the killing of Officer Duran and the attempted murders of his parents.
Late Sunday night, Magisterial District Judge Jonathan J. Dunsinger arraigned Gartrell. He was ordered held without bail and transported to jail. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for Wednesday, though court records show he does not yet have legal representation.
The coroner’s office confirmed that an autopsy for Jose Duran is scheduled for Tuesday to determine the exact cause of death. Duran’s killing marks a devastating loss for the community he served and for his family.
State police and community leaders expressed shock and sadness over the events. Duran, who dedicated himself to public safety, is being remembered for his service and commitment to protecting others. His sudden death while performing his duties has left residents of The Hideout and beyond mourning the violent turn of events.
The shooting has also raised broader questions about mental health and violence. While witnesses pointed to Gartrell’s struggles with bipolar disorder, investigators have not confirmed how his mental state may have factored into the attack. Officials continue to gather evidence and interview those who knew him in hopes of piecing together what prompted the rampage.
For now, the community remains on edge, grappling with the shock of a safety officer being killed in the line of duty inside a gated neighborhood that many considered a safe haven. Vigils and tributes for Jose Duran are being planned as residents rally around his family and honor his sacrifice.
As the investigation moves forward, law enforcement authorities have pledged to ensure justice is served for Duran and his loved ones, while also supporting the recovery of Lisa and Robert Gartrell.
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