Following a devastating explosion at Horizon Biofuels on July 29, 2025, a community in Nebraska is grieving the loss of 32-year-old Dylan Danielson and his two daughters, Hayven, 12, and Fayeah, 8. That day, Dylan, the lone worker on duty, had brought his daughters to work. They were in the break room when the room collapsed due to a huge explosion caused by a dust fire. Before a second explosion trapped him inside, Dylan was able to call his wife and let her know where the girls were. The following day, rescuers found Dylan’s body, and later that evening, they found the bodies of his daughters.
Authorities issued a disaster declaration and began looking into it. As OSHA started its six-month investigation, the Nebraska Fire Marshal verified that dust ignition was the cause of the explosion. According to documents, Horizon Biofuels had experienced a minor fire in 2014 and had previously violated safety regulations regarding wood dust accumulation and insufficient hazard training. The elevator tower at the plant was totally destroyed in the most recent explosion.
Heartfelt tributes have been made by friends, family, and schools. Fayeah’s school remembered her for her lively personality and constant smile, while Hayven’s school described her as a bright, caring spirit. Condolences have been sent by classmates, neighbors, and local wrestling clubs, and GoFundMe pages have raised thousands of dollars to support the families.
The small town has been rocked by the tragedy, and many people have praised Dylan as a loving father who loved his kids. “They were decent children. His aunt remarked, “He was such a good daddy.” The town mourns the irreplaceable loss of three lives lost far too soon in what may have been a preventable tragedy while investigations continue.