In a tragic incident early Monday, June 23, 2025, the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) reported that 57-year-old Jeffrey Kukay, a dedicated 20‑year employee of the Ottawa County Regional Water Treatment Plant, was found deceased inside one of the facility’s primary water tanks.
At approximately 6:15 a.m., deputies responded to reports of a body located within a water tank at the plant. Upon arrival, they discovered Kukay floating face-down, secured by a safety harness connected to a line running down a central ladder. After draining the tank, Kukay’s body was respectfully retrieved and identified through personal items at the scene.
Kukay had faithfully served the water treatment plant for two decades. Known for his reliability and deep chemical and mechanical knowledge, he worked the graveyard shift from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. His final recorded activity occurred during a routine 7 p.m. water sample analysis—the only one completed that shift.
Sheriff’s office officials reported no visible injuries, bleeding, or indications of foul play. As of now, authorities believe there was no third-party involvement. Local agencies—the EPA, Ohio Public Employment Risk Reduction Program, and Ottawa County Emergency Management Agency—have been involved in an ongoing investigation to determine the exact sequence of events that led to Kukay’s death.
Kukay’s death forced the water plant to suspend operations and issue a county-wide boil water advisory for areas served by the plant, including Elmore, Oak Harbor, Port Clinton, Marblehead, Catawba, Danbury, Portage Township, Erie Township, Salem Township, Bay Township, and Harris Township.
Although initial water tests detected no contamination, authorities implemented precautionary safety measures: chlorine levels were elevated within the system and all residents were urged to boil water for at least one minute before using it for cooking, drinking, oral hygiene, or cleaning dishes. The advisory is expected to remain in effect for up to four days, pending further testing and system flushing.
In addition to safety measures, Ottawa County Emergency Management provided bottled water distribution at the Port Clinton campus location between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. to assist affected residents. Ottawa County Sanitary Engineer Zach Mulder expressed gratitude to the community for its support:
As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of a steadfast and trusted member of the water plant team. Known for his dependable service and expertise, Kukay earned deep respect among colleagues—many of whom recall his quiet dedication and calm presence during complex projects and night shifts.
As Ottawa County works to regain normalcy and lift the boil advisory, the memory and legacy of Jeffrey Kukay remain central: a reminder of the vigilance, skill, and sacrifice inherent in maintaining essential public infrastructure.
Details regarding memorial services and funeral arrangements are awaited from Kukay’s family and will be announced through local funeral homes. Community members are encouraged to convey sympathy and support to those closest to Jeffrey during this sorrowful time.
