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ST. EDWARDS — A 17-year-old boy was found deceased Monday at the Beaver Valley Pork Company on Monday, April 1.
According to the Boone County Sheriff’s Office, at 11:30 a.m., they received an emergency call regarding an unresponsive 17-year-old juvenile at a hog unit located at the Beaver Valley Pork Company, 3682 300th Ave., in rural St. Edwards.
The Beaver Valley Pork Company is owned by Pillen Family Farms, owned in part by Gov. Jim Pillen.
Sarah Pillen, the co-chief executive of Pillen Family Farms, identified the 17-year-old as Zach Panther.
The Boone County Sheriff said an autopsy was requested by the county attorney; foul play is not suspected per the initial investigation.
“The loss of Zach Panther has left us profoundly saddened. Though his employment with our Team was very brief, he positively impacted those he worked with. Nebraska State Patrol and Boone County Sheriff’s Office are still investigating what happened and the cause of his death remains unknown,” Sarah Pillen wrote.
“We deeply mourn Zach’s passing and extend our prayers to his loved ones during this very difficult time,” Sarah Pillen concluded.
