Jeremías Daniel Zelaya, a 17-year-old Honduran boy, lost his life on July 6, 2025 while he was cleaning up a construction site in the state of Missouri, United States. The teenager suffered a fatal electric shock when he accidentally moved a metal ladder that made contact with high-voltage wires.
The case has moved migrant communities and labor rights organizations, since Jeremías Daniel Zelaya had arrived in the country with the hope of a better future, like so many young Latinos. His mother, Elvira Zelaya, tearfully told Hispanic media that she had a bad feeling that day and asked him not to go to work, but the young man replied: “Mommy, we need the money”. The tragic accident occurred while Jeremias, his uncle and a cousin were picking up trash at the site. His stepfather, Marlon Funez, reported that all three were hit by the electric shock. Although he tried to give first aid, Jeremías no longer had vital signs.
The uncle is still hospitalized
The electric shock that Jeremías Daniel Zelaya received also affected his cousin, who lost two fingers, and his uncle, who is still recovering.
The family had emigrated from Honduras in August 2023, settling first in Texas, but when they could not find work, they moved to Missouri.
Jeremías Daniel Zelaya obtained work under informal conditions, which is common among adolescent migrants without work authorization.
This type of employment, often without protection or adequate training, represents high risks for young workers and newcomers.
Body to be repatriated to Honduras
Now, the family of Jeremías Daniel Zelaya is seeking financial support to repatriate his body to Honduras and bury him in his native community.
“No mother wants to see her child in a box. It’s very hard,” said Elvira, who has started a community collection to cover the expenses.
Local migrant organizations and community leaders have begun to spread the story to raise funds.
In addition to denouncing the unsafe conditions under which many young migrants work in the U.S.
Labor rights and invisible risks
Labor rights experts stress the importance of migrant workers – even without legal status – knowing their basic rights in the workplace.
Including the right to a safe environment.
The case has moved migrant communities
QuéOnnda.com
Cases like that of Jeremías Daniel Zelaya reveal the vulnerability of young Hispanics who come to the country in search of opportunities and end up facing dangerous conditions without supervision or adequate equipment.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
