Man Kills Female Co-Worker with Sledgehammer in Shocking Tragedy

A shocking tragedy unfolded this week at a food and dairy processing facility in central Minnesota, where a man is accused of brutally killing a co-worker with a sledgehammer.

According to charges filed in Wright County, the attack happened early Tuesday morning at Advanced Process Technologies, located at 165 Swendra Blvd NE in Cokato. Around 6 a.m., deputies were called to the facility after reports of a woman suffering from severe head trauma and heavy blood loss. Despite lifesaving efforts from first responders, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators say the suspect, 40-year-old David Delong of Watkins, Minnesota, was identified as the co-worker responsible for the attack. Surveillance video allegedly shows Delong walking up to the victim’s workstation, grabbing a sledgehammer, and striking her multiple times. He was arrested without incident and later confessed to the killing, telling investigators he didn’t like the victim and had planned the attack for some time.

The victim has been identified by family as 20-year-old Amber Czech. Loved ones described her as a talented welder who loved her job and took great pride in her work.

In a statement released Wednesday, Advanced Process Technologies said:

“We are heartbroken by yesterday’s tragedy, and our thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends in this terrible moment. We are also making sure our employees have the support they need and are working closely with law enforcement as they continue their investigation. Production at the facility has been paused for the rest of the week, and administrative staff are working remotely.”

Delong is charged with second-degree murder and could face up to 40 years in prison if convicted.

This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.