Weld County, CO — What began as an ordinary day at a family-run dairy farm in rural Colorado turned into a devastating tragedy this week, when six workers were found dead in what authorities believe was a fatal gas exposure.

The incident happened on Wednesday at Prospect Valley Dairy, located near Keenesburg in Weld County. Emergency crews were called after workers failed to return from a routine task inside a confined structure on the farm. When first responders arrived, they discovered all six individuals had died at the scene. Investigators suspect a buildup of toxic gases—likely hydrogen sulfide, a dangerous byproduct of manure decomposition—was the cause of death.

Victims Identified

The Weld County Coroner’s Office released the names of the six victims on Friday. They include:

• Alejandro Espinoza Cruz, 50, of Nunn

• His son, Oscar Espinoza Leos, 17, a Highland High School student

• His older son, Carlos Espinoza Prado, 29, of Evans

• Jorge Sanchez Peña, 36, of Greeley, a relative by marriage

• Ricardo Gomez Galvan, 40, of Keenesburg

• Noe Montanez Castañas, 32, of Keenesburg

Four of the six were from the same extended family. The youngest, Oscar, had just begun his senior year of high school and was remembered by friends as a bright, hardworking teen who often helped his father and brothers at the farm.

Investigation Underway

Autopsies have been completed, though final toxicology results are still pending. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths, with officials emphasizing that the case currently appears to be a tragic accident with no signs of foul play. Investigators are examining whether proper ventilation and safety measures were in place at the time of the exposure.

Community Grieves a Shared Loss

The tragedy has shaken Weld County’s tight-knit farming community. Highland High School, where Oscar was a student, has made grief counseling available to classmates and staff. Local churches and community organizations have also mobilized to support the grieving families, hosting fundraisers such as benefit dinners, dances, and car washes to help cover funeral costs.

In a statement, community leaders said the deaths underscore the hidden dangers faced by agricultural workers every day. “These were hardworking men, fathers, sons, and brothers,” one local pastor noted. “Their loss is a loss for all of us.”

As investigations continue, the community has united in mourning—remembering six lives cut short in a tragic reminder of the risks behind the nation’s food supply chain.