Two workers who were found dead inside a pump tank serving a hotel in Kennebunkport, Maine, this week died from inhaling toxic hydrogen sulfide gas and sewage, according to autopsies released Thursday. 

The workers for Stevens Electric and Pumper Service, Monmouth, Maine, were Winfield Studley, 58, and Richard Kemp, 70. Both men had many years of experience working in confined-space situations, and the circumstances of their deaths remain unclear. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration is investigating.

According to media accounts, the sewer pump tank at the Lodge at Turbots Creek had been pumped by another contractor and then the men entered the 4-foot high, 5-foot wide and 6-foot long tank to work on a submersible pump. The men worked across the state installing and servicing sewer pumps. Neither was wearing special breathing equipment when they were discovered, according to reports.

When the men were discovered in the tank Sept. 27, the tank had filledl, leading to speculation that wastewater from a municipal sewer system had somehow flowed back into the private system while the men were working.

“We are deeply saddened by the deaths of our friends and co-workers, Richard Kemp and Winfield Studley,’’ owner Tim Stevens said in a statement at the company’s website. “At this point, we can’t be certain about what happened today. It's a tragedy for two families, two communities and everyone who knew Dick and Win. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and many friends. It’s a terrible day for many people.”

The statement also said the company is cooperating with OSHA and other agencies.

The Kennebec Journal filed a detailed story on the deaths Thursday. You can find it here: http://www.kjonline.com/news/autopsy-sewer-gases-killed-2-men_2011-09-28.html