Eden Lake Township, MN – The community of Eden Valley is mourning the sudden and tragic loss of Elder Gonzalez, a 25-year-old man whose life was cut short on Tuesday morning, July 29, 2025, in a devastating workplace accident involving a tanker-trailer in Stearns County.
According to the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a distress call at approximately 9:45 a.m. reporting a medical emergency on a rural property in Eden Lake Township. Upon arrival, authorities discovered Gonzalez unresponsive inside a 42-foot tanker trailer used for DAF water (Dissolved Air Flotation), a method commonly applied in wastewater treatment processes.
The tanker contained approximately 1.5 feet of water at the time. Sheriff’s officials say Gonzalez had been cleaning the interior of the trailer using a hose when he apparently lost his balance and fell inside. The confined space and the hazardous environment likely contributed to the tragic outcome.
Emergency responders worked swiftly to remove him from the trailer and initiated life-saving measures. Despite these efforts, Elder Gonzalez was later pronounced dead at Paynesville Hospital.
A Life Remembered
Elder Gonzalez, a resident of Eden Valley, was known for his work ethic, kind spirit, and close ties to his family and friends. Those who knew him describe him as hardworking, respectful, and eager to help others. His tragic death has left a void in the hearts of many in the local community.
Friends, coworkers, and family members have begun sharing memories online, expressing their heartbreak and offering condolences. “Elder was always smiling, always willing to lend a hand,” one colleague wrote. “He had so much life ahead of him.”
Investigation Underway
While foul play is not suspected, authorities are conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has been notified, and workplace safety procedures are expected to be reviewed as part of the protocol.
The Sheriff’s Office has not yet confirmed the name of the business or property owner associated with the tanker, though it is believed Gonzalez may have been contracted or employed in a cleaning or maintenance role.
Community Support and Grief
The tragic nature of Elder’s passing has prompted an outpouring of support. Community members have begun organizing prayer services, and a GoFundMe page is expected to be launched soon to help the family with funeral expenses and provide assistance during this difficult time.
Neighbors in Eden Valley described Gonzalez as a “young man with a future” and said the loss is not just personal for his family but also for the entire community that embraced him.
Final Thoughts
As the investigation continues, the memory of Elder Gonzalez serves as a solemn reminder of the risks faced by workers in industrial and environmental maintenance roles. His death, though tragic, has sparked renewed calls for safety measures and training in such high-risk environments.
Gonzalez’s loved ones now face the unimaginable task of saying goodbye to a son, friend, and valued community member whose life ended far too soon. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.
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