A Coast Guard veteran, his wife, and their two young children were found dead inside their Florida home over the weekend in what authorities believe may be a tragic case of carbon monoxide poisoning. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office confirmed deputies responded to a residence on Banyan Track Way at approximately 10:25 p.m. Saturday to conduct a welfare check. Upon entering the home, first responders discovered all four family members deceased.
Officials identified the victims as 33-year-old Yohan Sanchez, 37-year-old Rebeca Santos, 15-year-old Michael Melendez, and 2-year-old Samuel Sanchez. Investigators indicated that preliminary findings suggest possible carbon monoxide exposure, though the official cause of death has not yet been determined. The Medical Examiner’s Office is conducting further examinations to confirm the exact cause.
Law enforcement authorities stated that there are no signs of foul play at the residence. The investigation remains ongoing as detectives work to determine how the suspected carbon monoxide buildup may have occurred. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly when inhaled in high concentrations, often resulting from malfunctioning appliances or poor ventilation.
Family members expressed shock and heartbreak as they struggled to process the sudden loss. Sanchez’s mother told local media that she had spoken briefly with her son the night before the tragedy. She described the conversation as routine, saying he had been baking a cake at the time. Relatives said the family had recently relocated to Florida from Massachusetts about a year ago after meeting through their church community.
Sanchez’s brother described him as a devoted husband, father, and man of faith who was deeply committed to serving others. The unexpected nature of the deaths has left loved ones devastated.
Local reports indicate that the U.S. Coast Guard will cover funeral expenses for Sanchez due to his veteran status. However, funeral benefits typically apply only to the service member, meaning arrangements for his wife and children will be handled by the family.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and are expected to release additional details once the medical examination is complete.
