A shocking and tragic incident unfolded at Advanced Process Technologies in Cokato, Minnesota, when a deranged co-worker allegedly bludgeoned a young woman to death with a sledgehammer. The perpetrator, identified as 40-year-old David Bruce Delong, was arrested and charged with second-degree intentional murder in connection with the brutal attack on 20-year-old Amber Czech.
According to reports from the Wright County Attorney’s Office, Delong had been planning the ruthless assault for some time before carrying it out. Surveillance footage captured the chilling moment when he left his workstation and approached Czech, grabbing a sledgehammer and striking her in the head multiple times. The unsuspecting victim, a welder at the plant, fell to the floor as Delong continued to viciously attack her.
After the heinous act, Delong callously informed another employee, “I hit her with your hammer, she is by your toolbox, she is gone.” Czech succumbed to her injuries at the scene, with authorities finding the bloody weapon next to her lifeless body. The court documents revealed that Delong admitted to not liking the victim and confessed to planning her murder.
Amber Czech, a resident of Hutchinson, was described by her father as a hardworking and outgoing young woman who excelled in her role as a welder. She had a passion for welding that began in high school and pursued further education at Alexandria Technical & Community College, graduating from a welding technology program in 2024.
In the wake of Czech’s tragic death, Advanced Process Technologies announced that production would be paused for the week as administrative staff worked remotely to assist with the police investigation. The company expressed condolences to Czech’s family and friends, emphasizing their commitment to supporting employees and the victim’s loved ones during this difficult time.
Wright County Attorney Brian Lutes indicated plans to seek an upgraded charge of first-degree premeditated murder against Delong, who is currently in custody awaiting his next court appearance on November 24. The community is reeling from the senseless loss of a young life and demanding justice for Amber Czech as authorities continue their investigation into this horrific crime.
