by North Forty News Staff | NorthFortyNews.com
Coroner Confirms Victims’ Identities; Investigation Underway
The Weld County Coroner’s Office has released the names of six victims killed in a tragic incident at Prospect Valley Dairy east of Keenesburg on August 20. Authorities believe the men were exposed to gas while working in a confined space.
The deceased include residents from across Northern Colorado:
- Jorge Sanchez Pena, 36, of Greeley
- Alejandro Espinoza Cruz, 50, of Nunn
- Oscar Espinoza Leos, 17, of Nunn
- Ricardo Gomez Galvan, 40, of Keenesburg
- Noe Montanez Casanas, 32, of Keenesburg
- Carlos Espinoza Prado, 29, of Evans
Autopsies have been completed, though the official cause and manner of death are pending. Early reports suggest that gas exposure in a confined space was the likely cause, though testing continues to determine the specific gas involved.
Community Impact
Among the victims was a student at Highland High School in Ault, part of the Weld RE-9 School District, bringing grief to both classmates and educators. Counseling and support services have been made available to students and staff.
The loss is reverberating across Weld County communities, including Greeley, Evans, Nunn, and Keenesburg, where families and neighbors are mourning the sudden deaths.
The Dairy Farmers of America, a national cooperative that includes the farm, issued a statement expressing “deep sorrow” and offering condolences to the families.
Investigation Ongoing
The Weld County Sheriff’s Office reported no signs of foul play, calling the deaths a tragic accident. A federal OSHA investigation is now underway and could take up to six months to complete.
Call to Action
North Forty News will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available, including community support efforts. For the latest news across Northern Colorado, visit northfortynews.com.
Information provided by the Weld County Coroner’s Office, AP News, People, and Denver7.