They Missed Mass and That Raised Suspicion; Hispanic Family Fell Asleep and Were Found Dead

• Hispanic Family Tragedy in Florida
• Fatal Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
• Hispanic Community in Mourning

A silent tragedy struck a Hispanic family in Ocala, Florida, after four family members were found dead inside their home due to carbon monoxide poisoning.

The deaths of two adults and two minors, including a toddler, have caused shock among relatives and the community, which is now trying to process an unexpected and deeply painful loss.

A Hispanic Family Tragedy That Shook an Entire Community

What Is Known

According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a home located on Banyan Track Way, near Southeast 58th Avenue, shortly before 10:30 p.m. on Friday after receiving a call requesting a welfare check.

Inside the house, four people were found deceased, all from carbon monoxide poisoning.

The victims were identified as Yohan Sanchez, 33; Rebeca Santos, 37; Michael Melendez, 15; and Samuel Sanchez, just 2 years old.

Among them were a teenager and a small child, making the grief even more difficult for loved ones.

“Missing Mass” Raised Suspicion

Concern arose when the family failed to attend a religious service they regularly attended.

According to relatives, they did not show up at church on Thursday, prompting the pastor to visit their home to check on them.

The house was silent and dark, leading him to believe the family might be asleep. When he returned Friday and again received no response, he called 911.

That decision revealed a tragedy no one expected.

A Brother’s Grief

Sendy, Yohan’s brother and a resident of Boston, shared the devastation the family is experiencing.

He described his brother as an exemplary person dedicated to serving and caring for his loved ones.

“The family was basically his legs and arms. He was a provider. He was a hardworking man,” Sendy said, recalling the central role Yohan played in their lives.

Yohan had proudly served as a member of the United States Coast Guard, a fact his family highlights as a key part of his identity and commitment to service.

A Community in Mourning Over This Hispanic Family Tragedy

Neighbors also expressed sadness and solidarity. Alexander James, a local resident, asked for spiritual support for everyone affected.

“Just pray for us, for the community, for the neighborhood, and for the family,” he said.

He added that the emotional impact has been profound.

“Our entire community is going to be sad. Last night some neighbors and I were awake, deeply affected and truly hurt, because this is a loving community and we enjoy being together.”

Fundraiser and Message of Support

In response to the tragedy, the family created a fundraiser on GoFundMe, led by Noel, another brother, who wrote:

“Hello, my name is Noel. I am raising funds following the devastating loss of my brother, his wife, and their two children. My brother proudly served as a member of the United States Coast Guard. Our family is mourning this unimaginable tragedy, and this fundraiser is to help cover funeral expenses and support our family during this incredibly difficult time. Thank you for your prayers, compassion, and support.”

Authorities confirmed that no criminal act is suspected and described the incident as a tragic accident.

What Is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, invisible gas produced by the combustion of appliances that use gas, gasoline, coal, or wood.

Why it is dangerous: Because it cannot be easily detected, it can accumulate in enclosed spaces and cause loss of consciousness without warning.

Most common symptoms:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Drowsiness
• Weakness
• Loss of consciousness

At high levels, it can cause death while people are sleeping.

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Authorities have reiterated the importance of installing carbon monoxide detectors in homes to prevent tragedies like the Ocala carbon monoxide tragedy.

SOURCE: WESH 2 / GoFundme