A Nebraska community is grieving the loss of 32-year-old Dylan Danielson and his daughters, Hayven, 12, and Fayeah, 8,
after a deadly explosion at Horizon Biofuels on July 29, 2025. Dylan, the only worker on shift, had brought his girls to work.
They were in the break room when a dust fire triggered a massive blast, collapsing it. Before a second explosion
trapped him, Dylan called his wife to tell her the girls’ location. His body was recovered the next day; the girls later that night.
The Nebraska Fire Marshal confirmed dust ignition as the cause. OSHA launched a six-month investigation. Horizon Biofuels had prior violations,
including dust buildup and poor hazard training, and a smaller 2014 fire. The recent blast destroyed the plant’s elevator tower.
Tributes poured in from family, friends, schools, and local groups. Hayven was remembered as bright and caring; Fayeah for her lively personality
and smile. Wrestling clubs, classmates, and neighbors shared condolences, and GoFundMe campaigns raised thousands to help the family.
Many praised Dylan as a devoted father. “They were good kids. He was such a good daddy,” his aunt said.
The tragedy has shaken the town, raising questions about workplace safety.