A tragic workplace incident in Cokato, Minnesota, has led to the death of 20-year-old Amber Czech, who was killed by a co-worker using a sledgehammer at Advanced Process Technologies on Tuesday morning. Authorities have charged 40-year-old David Delong of Watkins with second-degree murder after he allegedly assaulted Czech, causing fatal head trauma.
At approximately 6 a.m. on Tuesday, deputies responded to a 911 call reporting a woman with severe head injuries and significant blood loss. Medical teams arrived quickly but were unable to save Czech, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Surveillance footage from the facility showed Delong walking to Czech’s workstation, grabbing a sledgehammer, and attacking her multiple times.
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According to court documents, Delong later confessed to the crime, admitting to investigators that he had planned the murder for some time because he did not like Czech. He faces a felony charge of second-degree murder, though the charge may be upgraded to first-degree murder as the investigation continues.
Czech’s family has described her as an accomplished welder with a passion for her work. Her family, along with her former coach, Dennis Piechowski, honored her memory on Wednesday. Piechowski, who had worked with Czech throughout high school, recalled her talent on the basketball court, especially her skills as a three-point shooter. He shared fond memories of joking with her about her welding skills and her dedication to her craft.
The food processing facility expressed its heartbreak in a statement, stating that they are providing support to employees and cooperating with law enforcement. Production at the facility has been paused for the remainder of the week as the investigation continues.
Delong is currently in custody, and if convicted, he faces up to 40 years in prison for second-degree murder. The case continues to develop as authorities work to determine further details surrounding the tragic crime.