Deadly Gas Suspected in Florida Family Tragedy Involving US Coast Guard Office

A Florida family has been found dead in what authorities believe may have been a case of carbon monoxide poisoning, leaving their community and loved ones in shock.

Yohan Sanchez, 33, a former US Coast Guard officer, his wife Rebeca Santos, 15-year-old son Michael Melendez, and 2-year-old son Samuel Sanchez were discovered in their Ocala home during a welfare check around 10:30 p.m. on Friday, February 7. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office announced the discovery on Monday, February 9.

Heartbroken, Sanchez’s mother, Jackie Soto, shared that she had spoken to her son just hours before his death. “I don’t believe it. This is my baby,” she said, recalling their brief, routine conversation. At the time, Yohan had been baking a cake, she said—a simple, ordinary moment that makes the loss even harder to bear.

Authorities have confirmed that foul play is not suspected, and investigators believe the family may have been fatally exposed to carbon monoxide, a deadly, odorless gas. The official cause of death is still pending confirmation from the Medical Examiner’s Office.

Sanchez’s sister, Noel, described him as a proud Coast Guard Reserve member before his retirement last year and shared the family’s story on a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral costs. Yohan’s brother, Sendy Sanchez, said their pastor had first checked on the family on Thursday, February 6, after they missed a church event. Finding no one home, he returned the next day and called 911 when there was still no response.

Neighbors described the family as warm and friendly. Alexander James, who lived nearby, said the couple and their children had lived in the home for about 10 months and were always kind and neighborly. Yohan and Rebeca had met at a church in Massachusetts before relocating to Florida about a year ago, Sendy said, noting that Yohan was a deeply devoted Christian who prioritized family, faith, and service to others.

Michael, the couple’s teenage son, was a ninth grader at Ocala Christian Academy. School administrator Randy Osborn remembered him as a young man passionate about his faith and studies. “He enjoyed playing the piano, but more importantly, strived to serve God and others,” Osborn said. Michael had even been preparing to preach at church on Thursday evening, reflecting his dedication and leadership.

This heartbreaking incident has left friends, family, and the local community reeling. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office has said its thoughts are with the family and requested prayers for their loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.