Amber Czech – Authorities are continuing to release details about a tragic workplace incident that occurred earlier this week in Cokato, resulting in the loss of a young employee’s life. Early Tuesday morning, around 6 a.m., emergency dispatchers received a call from Advanced Process Technologies (APT), a metal fabrication and manufacturing facility located in Cokato. According to officials, the caller reported that a female employee had been found unresponsive at her workstation with severe injuries.
Wright County Sheriff’s Deputies and Cokato Ambulance personnel immediately responded. First responders attempted emergency aid upon arrival, but despite their efforts, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Multiple sources have since identified the victim as 20-year-old Amber Czech of Hutchinson, who was employed as a welder at the company.
Investigators say that a male co-worker, identified as 40-year-old David Bruce Delong of Watkins, was taken into custody at the scene without incident. According to information released by the Wright County Attorney’s Office, Delong is accused of causing the injuries that led to Czech’s death. Officials say surveillance footage reviewed by detectives appears to show the event taking place.
The criminal complaint alleges that after being informed of his legal rights, Delong told investigators that he had caused harm to Czech and expressed strong negative feelings toward her. The complaint also indicates that Delong made statements suggesting he had been thinking about doing so for some time. Due to the nature of the allegations, officials have taken additional steps to ensure the investigation is as thorough as possible.
Wright County Attorney Brian Lutes stated on Wednesday that Delong has been formally charged with second-degree intentional murder. Lutes added that investigators are still working through evidence, and additional charges — including first-degree murder — are being considered depending on the findings.
Delong is currently being held in custody as the legal process continues. His next scheduled court appearance is set for November 24.
In response to the incident, operations at Advanced Process Technologies have been paused for the remainder of the week. The company released a statement expressing deep sadness over the loss of their employee, noting that their thoughts are with Amber’s family, friends, and colleagues as they cope with the difficult news. APT also stated that it is taking steps to ensure that employees receive emotional and mental health support during this difficult time.
The company emphasized that it is fully cooperating with law enforcement and assisting investigators in any way necessary. Community members, employees, and local officials have described the event as deeply shocking, with many expressing concern for the well-being of all those affected.
As the investigation continues, authorities say they are committed to determining all contributing factors and ensuring a meticulous examination of evidence, including interviews, workplace records, and security footage. Additional updates are expected as the case moves through the legal system.
