Darke Co. businessman found electrocuted

Investigation continues on the Darke County side of the Darke-Mercer County village of Burkettsville into the death of a businessman.

Deputies said it appears that Joseph Werling, 39, of  Burkettsville, was the victim of an electrocution. They said he was working in the boiler room of the family business when the incident happened.

Deputies, fire, rescue squad and the Darke County Coroner were dispatched to 100 S. Plum Street at 6:07 p.m. Monday, which is the location of  Werling  & Sons Slaughter House in Burkettsville.

As the investigation continues, deputies said they have not ruled out if the Werling's death was weather-related. They said storms were moving through the area at the time.

Federal, state and local authorities are investigating Werling's death. Investigators from the Occupational Safety and Health Adminstration are expected to arrive Tuesdsay.

Sheriff Toby Spencer said his investigators have more questions than answers about what happened.

The family-owned slaughter house is known for its canned meats.