Police have launched an investigation following the unexpected death of Eduardo Hernandez, a 55-year-old employee, at the JBS beef plant in Tolleson, Arizona. Hernandez, a long-time team member with over 20 years at the facility, was found unresponsive on-site on Wednesday morning.
Emergency responders arrived promptly at 8:45 a.m., but despite their efforts, Hernandez was pronounced dead at the scene. The cause of Hernandez’s death remains unknown pending an autopsy, which is expected to provide answers within 48 hours.
According to the Tolleson Police Department, there are no immediate indications of foul play. Lt. Lee Garrett stated, “The cause of death can’t be released until the autopsy, but what we can say is that the death happened on-site and we are still investigating.”
JBS has emphasized that the incident was not work-related, and the company took the unusual step of closing the plant for the first shift of the day out of respect for Hernandez.
Hernandez’s passing has elicited an outpouring of grief from his family, friends, and co-workers. His sister, Graciela Reyes, expressed her sorrow on social media, writing, “Forever in my heart, brother.
Eduardo Reyes Hernandez, you leave us a great pain. I have no words. I love you so much. Only God knows why He sends these tests so hard. I’ll miss you forever, my little brother.” Friends also remembered him fondly, with one, Juanito Hernandez, describing Eduardo as a “great guy” who deeply cared for his workplace.
Eduardo Hernandez was originally from Mexico and was married, as noted on his social media profiles. His long-standing dedication to his job at JBS Tolleson was evident, with colleagues and friends highlighting his commitment and positive demeanor.
The JBS Tolleson plant, a major beef processing facility, expressed its condolences through a statement. “JBS Tolleson is saddened by the death of a long-time team member that was unrelated to work.
The decision was made to close the facility during the first shift of the day out of respect to the team member. Our thoughts and prayers are with the individual’s family, co-workers, and friends.”
The death has sparked questions and concern, not just among those who knew Hernandez personally but also within the local community. The JBS plant, a significant employer in the region, has dealt with workplace incidents in the past, though none like this recent tragedy.
While the company has clarified that Hernandez’s death is unrelated to his work, the circumstances surrounding his sudden passing remain unclear. Investigators are working to piece together the events leading up to the moment he was found unresponsive.
Hernandez’s death underscores the emotional toll such losses take on workplaces, especially when the deceased is a long-tenured and respected member of the team. For his family, the grief is compounded by the sudden nature of his passing.
As tributes pour in, the autopsy results are awaited to provide clarity and help his loved ones find closure. The JBS plant’s decision to close temporarily serves as a mark of respect, reflecting the somber mood among its employees as they remember Eduardo Hernandez’s life and contributions.
