Ottawa County, Ohio — june 23 2025 A heartbreaking incident has shaken the quiet community of Ottawa County, Ohio, following the tragic death of Jeffrey Kukay, a long-serving and dedicated night-shift employee at the Ottawa County Regional Water Treatment Plant. Jeffrey was found deceased inside a water tank, sending waves of shock, sorrow, and serious concern through both the local community and public health officials.
Authorities confirmed that Kukay’s body was discovered earlier this week, prompting an immediate investigation and the issuance of a county-wide boil advisory out of an abundance of caution. Though there is no current evidence of foul play, officials are conducting a full review to determine how such a tragedy could have occurred and to ensure public water safety moving forward.
Jeffrey Kukay, known to friends and coworkers as a committed, hardworking, and quiet force, had worked at the plant for several years. He was deeply respected by his colleagues for his professionalism, strong work ethic, and dedication to keeping the community’s most essential resource safe and running smoothly.
“Jeff was the kind of guy you could count on,” said a coworker. “He didn’t seek praise. He just showed up every night, did the hard work, and made sure the rest of us could depend on clean water. He was part of the backbone of this operation.”
His sudden and tragic death has left his family, friends, and colleagues grappling with grief and unanswered questions. Local officials, including the Ottawa County Health Department and State EPA, are working closely to oversee the investigation and to monitor water quality closely in the wake of the incident.
In the meantime, residents have been advised to boil water for drinking, cooking, and oral hygiene until further notice. Officials stress that this is a precautionary measure and that ongoing testing is being conducted to ensure the safety of the public water supply.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a man who quietly played a vital role in the well-being of thousands. Jeffrey Kukay’s legacy will be remembered in every drop of water he helped deliver, every quiet shift he worked through the night, and every person who never had to think twice about what flowed from their tap.
Rest in peace, Jeffrey.
Your life of service will not be forgotten.
