OTTAWA COUNTY, OHIO — Tragedy at Water Plant as Worker Found Dead in Tank, Community Under Boil Advisory
OTTAWA COUNTY, OHIO — A quiet Ohio community is reeling after a horrifying discovery at a local public facility turned an ordinary workweek into a crisis. Authorities confirmed that 42-year-old Jeffrey Kukay, a devoted night-shift employee at the Ottawa County Regional Water Treatment Plant, was found dead inside one of the plant’s massive water tanks early Tuesday morning, sending shockwaves through the county and raising urgent questions about safety protocols, infrastructure oversight, and the potential impact on the public water supply.
The Discovery
According to officials, Kukay, a seasoned plant operator with over a decade of service, was reported missing by coworkers when he failed to check in during routine overnight maintenance rounds. A facility-wide search led to the grim discovery — his body was submerged inside one of the tanks responsible for storing treated drinking water before it is distributed to the public.
Emergency personnel from the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, local fire departments, and hazardous materials crews quickly responded to the scene. The facility was evacuated and secured as investigators worked to determine how Kukay ended up inside the tank.
“It’s a tragic situation, and our hearts go out to Jeffrey’s family, friends, and colleagues,” said Ottawa County Administrator Lisa Papke during a press briefing. “We are fully cooperating with all investigative agencies to find out how this could have happened.”
Immediate Public Health Measures
In the wake of the incident, the Ottawa County Health Department issued a county-wide boil water advisory out of an abundance of caution. Residents in Port Clinton, Oak Harbor, Elmore, Genoa, and surrounding areas were told to boil all water intended for drinking, cooking, and oral hygiene for at least one minute before use. The advisory will remain in place until comprehensive water quality tests are completed.
Officials stressed that while the water had already undergone filtration and disinfection procedures, the integrity of the supply could not be guaranteed until further testing was conducted.
“As of now, there is no confirmed contamination,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Renee Gladstone, “but until our testing is complete and conclusive, we urge residents to take precautions.”
Bottled water was distributed at several emergency supply centers set up across the county for residents with urgent needs, particularly the elderly, families with infants, and those with compromised immune systems.
Investigation Underway
While foul play has not been ruled out, early indications suggest the incident may have been a tragic accident. Surveillance footage, maintenance logs, and plant infrastructure are all under scrutiny by local law enforcement and federal occupational safety inspectors.
“We are investigating all possibilities,” said Sheriff Stephen Levorchick. “This includes reviewing whether proper safety harnesses and protective equipment were in use, if procedural protocols were followed, and if the facility’s layout contributed in any way to this devastating outcome.”
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has launched a parallel inquiry to examine workplace conditions and compliance with safety standards at the water treatment plant. The facility remains closed until further notice.
Remembering Jeffrey Kukay
Friends, family, and colleagues described Kukay as a quiet but dependable man, someone who loved his job and took pride in his role helping ensure clean water for the people of Ottawa County.
“Jeff wasn’t just a worker—he was a protector of public health,” said Mike Tenner, a fellow plant employee and longtime friend. “He worked nights so the rest of us could wake up with water to drink. He deserves more recognition than he ever asked for.”
An online memorial fund has been set up to help the Kukay family with funeral costs. Community members have already begun placing flowers and notes of condolence near the gates of the water treatment plant.
Lingering Questions and Long-Term Impact
As the community mourns and officials work to restore public confidence, the tragic death of Jeffrey Kukay has exposed the vulnerability of essential infrastructure and raised difficult questions about the balance between operational efficiency and worker safety.
Local officials promised a full review of all operations at the plant and hinted at sweeping changes to ensure such a tragedy never happens again.
“This isn’t just about one facility,” said Administrator Papke. “It’s a wake-up call for every municipal system in the country.”
Residents are urged to monitor official county websites and social media channels for updates on water safety and the ongoing investigation. A public town hall is being scheduled later this week to address community concerns, provide transparency, and honor the life and service of a man who quietly served his neighbors every day.
For more information or to support the Kukay family, visit the Ottawa County Water Plant’s official website or the verified GoFundMe page shared by his family.