In Loving Memory of Michael Kammer Jr. & Daniel Hagle
With broken hearts, the community of Clyde Township is mourning the devastating loss of two young men whose lives were tragically cut short during a well-cleaning job in St. Clair County. Michael Kammer Jr., 21, and Daniel Hagle, 20, died Tuesday afternoon after being exposed to toxic hydrogen sulfide gas in a confined space beneath a home’s porch on Cribbins Road.
What began as a routine workday ended in unimaginable tragedy. According to reports, the young men were working at a recently sold home when a chemical reaction created deadly hydrogen sulfide gas — a colorless but highly toxic substance that can quickly overwhelm those exposed. The confined area beneath the porch left little room for escape.
Family members and loved ones were left helpless as first responders rushed to the scene. Jenny Kammer, Michael’s mother, described the horror of the moment in heartbreaking words: “I collapsed, I couldn’t breathe. I couldn’t do nothing. I just froze. No mother should have ever had to see that.” Her pain reflects a grief no parent should ever endure.
She shared that when her son was brought out, he had no clothes on because of the chemicals that had contaminated them — a detail that underscores the severity of the situation and the danger these young men faced in their final moments.
Two Young Lives Full of Promise
Michael Kammer Jr., just 21 years old, was at the beginning of his adult life — filled with ambition, dreams, and the determination to build a future. He was a son deeply loved by his parents, someone whose laughter and presence filled their home with warmth. Those who knew him speak of a hardworking young man who took pride in what he did and cared deeply about his family.
Daniel Hagle, 20, was equally young, equally full of promise. At an age when most are planning their futures, exploring new paths, and building lifelong friendships, Daniel was tragically taken too soon. He was someone’s child, someone’s friend — a young man whose life mattered deeply.
Both Michael and Daniel were working — showing responsibility, dedication, and a willingness to do difficult jobs. Their work ethic and commitment are part of the legacy they leave behind.
A Community in Shock
The tragedy has shaken not only Clyde Township but the wider St. Clair County community. Industrial and confined-space work carries risks, yet few could imagine such a devastating outcome on an ordinary afternoon. The loss of two young men in a single incident has left families, friends, and coworkers grappling with shock and sorrow.
Several others were hospitalized following exposure to the toxic gas, a reminder of how quickly situations involving hazardous materials can escalate. The incident has prompted reflection about workplace safety, confined spaces, and the unseen dangers that can lurk in everyday tasks.
Honoring Their Memory
In the midst of grief, families are clinging to memories — childhood moments, shared laughter, holidays, late-night conversations, and dreams spoken aloud. Michael and Daniel will not be remembered solely for the tragedy that claimed their lives, but for the love they gave and the potential they carried.
They were young men stepping into adulthood, contributing through honest work and building their futures. Their absence leaves an indescribable void, but their impact will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved them.
Forever in Our Hearts
To the Kammer and Hagle families, and to all who are mourning, we extend our deepest condolences. May you find comfort in the outpouring of support surrounding you and strength in the cherished memories that cannot be taken away.
Michael Kammer Jr. and Daniel Hagle — your lives mattered.
You were loved beyond words, and you will never be forgotten.
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