**Minnesota Man Charged With Murder After Fatal Sledgehammer Attack at Workplace**
A Minnesota man has been accused of bludgeoning a female co-worker to death with a sledgehammer at their workplace in Cokato, Minnesota. David Bruce Delong, 40, was charged with second-degree intentional murder on November 11.
According to the Wright County Sheriff’s Office, Delong confessed to the killing, stating that he did not like the victim and had been planning to kill her for some time. The victim’s family identified her as Amber Czech, 20, through CBS-affiliated WCCO, describing her as an “amazing welder” who genuinely loved her job.
**Workplace Violence Raises Safety Concerns**
The murder has sparked concerns about workplace safety. Czech’s family is calling for greater awareness of the risks employees can face at work. They’ve expressed hopes to shine a light on workplace violence following this tragedy.
**Incident Details and Police Response**
Both Delong and Czech were employed at Advanced Process Technologies. Police responded to a 911 call at around 6 a.m. on November 11 after reports of an injured woman at the scene. When they arrived, they discovered the victim suffering from “major head trauma with significant blood loss.” A bloody sledgehammer was found near her.
Delong reportedly confessed to police and communicated to a witness, “I hit her with your hammer, she is by your toolbox, she is gone.” Video surveillance reviewed by police showed Delong, wearing gloves, walking from his workstation to Czech’s. Surveillance captured Delong picking up a sledgehammer and swinging it horizontally, consistent with Czech standing, and then delivering several downward blows, which police say aligns with Czech lying on the ground.
Despite medical care administered at the scene, Czech succumbed to her injuries.
**Charges and Investigation**
Delong faces a second-degree murder charge, which carries a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison. Wright County Attorney Brian Lutes stated, “I will evaluate this case for a possible charge of 1st degree premeditated murder which requires convening a grand jury.”
Prosecutors continue to review the case and have indicated they may pursue more severe charges pending further investigation.
**Community and Workplace Response**
Advanced Process Technologies released a statement on Facebook:
“As some in our community know, one of our facilities was the site of a tragic event that resulted in the death of one of our coworkers. Our hearts are with their family, friends and all who are grieving this loss. We are working closely with law enforcement as they investigate this event and focused on supporting our employees and the victim’s family.”
**What Happens Next**
Delong is scheduled to appear in court on November 24. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing as the community continues to grapple with the shocking incident.
**If you or someone you know is experiencing hostility or threats in the workplace, consider contacting local authorities or workplace safety organizations for support.**
https://www.newsweek.com/man-bludgeons-female-co-worker-to-death-sledgehammer-police-11045946