Death; Matt Tobben Columbia, MO, Boone County Fire Protection Assistant Chief has died, community mourns
Matt Tobben of Columbia, Missouri, Boone County Fire Protection District firefighter has died, It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that the tragic news of the passing of Assistant Chief Mathew Tobben from the Boone County Fire Protection District is shared. Earlier today, Chief Tobben was engaged in a swift water rescue operation alongside the Columbia Fire Department at Rangeline Street and Bear Creek. The team had already successfully rescued two individuals when the unforeseen occurred—a sudden overturning of their zodiac boat. In the chaos that followed, Chief Tobben was thrown from the boat and tragically drowned.
Despite this devastating loss, I am relieved to report that the Columbia firefighter and the two individuals initially rescued were safely recovered and are currently in stable condition. Chief Tobben’s selfless actions and unwavering commitment to serving and protecting the community will be remembered with profound gratitude.
During this profoundly difficult time, our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to Chief Tobben’s family, friends, and colleagues. His sacrifice underscores the bravery and dedication that define our first responders, who courageously put themselves in harm’s way to save others.
This morning, tragedy struck during a water rescue operation involving Assistant Chief Mathew Tobben, when the rescue boat he was on lost power and subsequently capsized. The unfortunate incident unfolded amidst a backdrop of heavy rainfall, which had led to widespread flooding and numerous rescue operations across the area. The specific location of the incident was near Bear Creek and Rangeline Roads, situated just north of Interstate 70.
As Assistant Chief Tobben and his team were actively engaged in the rescue efforts, the unexpected loss of power to their boat proved catastrophic. The swift and turbulent waters took control, causing the boat to overturn, ultimately leading to Chief Tobben tragically drowning in the line of duty.
The circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking event underscore the perilous conditions faced by emergency responders during such operations. Despite the dedicated efforts of Chief Tobben and his colleagues, the unpredictable nature of swift water rescues highlights the inherent risks involved in protecting and saving lives under extreme circumstances.
In the wake of this devastating loss, our thoughts are with Assistant Chief Tobben’s loved ones, as well as with the entire Boone County Fire Protection District and Columbia Fire Department communities. Chief Tobben’s courage, selflessness, and commitment to public service will be forever remembered and honored.
