Tragedy at Ottawa County Water Plant: Employee Found Dead in Water Tank, Boil Advisory Issued Across Multiple Ohio Communities
OTTAWA COUNTY, OHIO — A quiet Ohio community was shaken by tragedy this week when Jeffrey Kukay, a dedicated night-shift employee at the Ottawa County Regional Water Treatment Plant, was discovered dead inside a water tank, prompting immediate concerns over public safety and triggering a widespread boil advisory.
The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Kukay, who had been working alone during his 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. shift, was found floating face down in a water tank at the facility early Monday morning. Emergency responders were dispatched to the plant after concerns arose when scheduled water tests were not performed beyond the initial 7 p.m. sample.
Kukay was found wearing a safety harness that had been connected to a safety line affixed along a central ladder inside the tank. The circumstances surrounding his death remain under investigation, and officials confirmed that the tank had to be drained in order to retrieve his body. While no signs of foul play or external injuries were immediately apparent, the unexpected and tragic nature of the incident has prompted both a technical and procedural review of the plant’s safety protocols.
Boil Advisory Issued Across Ottawa County
As a precautionary measure, a boil water advisory was issued on Monday evening for numerous communities serviced by the plant. The advisory affects residents and businesses in:
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Elmore
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Port Clinton
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Danbury
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Catawba
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Oak Harbor
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Erie Township
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Portage Township
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Salem Township
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Harris Township
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Bay Township
Officials emphasized that the advisory was implemented as a safeguard, not because of confirmed contamination. Nonetheless, residents were urged to boil water before drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth, or washing dishes until further notice.
In an added measure to ensure water safety, a temporary increase in chlorine levels was ordered by sanitation engineers to further disinfect the system. The move was described as a preventative step meant to maintain water quality while the investigation and water quality assessments continue.
Bottled Water Distribution and Community Response
To assist those impacted, bottled water distribution was arranged at The Chapel in Ottawa County. Supplies were made available to the public on Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., or until resources were depleted. Local authorities expressed gratitude for the patience and understanding shown by residents during what has become a distressing and unprecedented public health situation.
The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a formal statement in response to the tragedy:
“Ohio EPA is saddened to hear of the tragic situation, and our thoughts are with their family and coworkers. While this is an ongoing investigation, we continue to work with both the Ottawa County Regional Water District and the Ottawa County EMA, ensuring all drinking water standards are met.”
The EPA, along with county emergency management and public health officials, are working closely to monitor water quality, test for any potential contamination, and review safety measures at the plant.
Remembering Jeffrey Kukay
Though much of the public focus has been on the water advisory, it’s the life of Jeffrey Kukay that many in the community are reflecting on. Described by colleagues as diligent and reliable, Kukay’s work helped ensure the daily safety and well-being of thousands who depended on the clean water the plant produced.
He served on the night shift, often working alone, quietly performing tasks that too often go unnoticed—until something goes tragically wrong. His sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the small, tight-knit water treatment and public works communities across Ohio.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Kukay’s death. While no foul play is currently suspected, and no bleeding or visible trauma were reported, the incident remains under review by both local law enforcement and state environmental officials. Findings from the ongoing investigation will help determine if any equipment malfunction, procedural lapse, or other issue may have contributed to the tragedy.
Residents are advised to continue following the boil advisory and to stay updated via local news outlets, WTOL, and official county social media and websites for the latest information regarding water safety and service updates.
A Sobering Reminder
This tragic event serves as a sobering reminder of the behind-the-scenes work performed daily by public utility employees, often under dangerous and isolating conditions. While residents await updates on the water supply, many have taken to social media and community forums to share condolences, appreciation for Kukay’s work, and calls for greater attention to the safety of essential workers.
As Ottawa County grapples with both the practical and emotional aftermath of this tragedy, one message resounds across the community: Jeffrey Kukay’s life and service mattered. And he will not be forgotten.
