In a tragic turn of events, Assistant Fire Chief Matt Tobben of the Boone County Fire Protection District was found dead on Monday morning in north Columbia. The incident, which occurred during a water rescue operation, has left the community mourning the loss of a dedicated and brave public servant. Boone County Assistant Fire Chief Gale Blomenkamp confirmed Tobben’s death in a statement released shortly after the incident.
The incident took place near Bear Creek and Rangeline Roads, just north of Interstate 70. According to Blomenkamp, Tobben lost his life while attempting to rescue two individuals who were trapped in floodwaters. During the rescue operation, Tobben’s boat capsized and lost power, leading to his unfortunate demise. Tobben was assisting the Columbia Fire Department at the time, and the Boone County Fire Protection District posted a heartfelt message on their Facebook page to inform the public of the tragic news.
The post detailed how Tobben, along with a Columbia firefighter and the two individuals initially rescued, were thrown back into the water when the boat lost power. Fortunately, the other three individuals were recovered and are reportedly doing well. The recent heavy rainfall in the area had prompted multiple calls for water rescues, and firefighters from Boone County had been actively responding to these emergencies throughout the morning.
The Mid-Missouri Sheriff’s Dive Team issued a statement emphasizing that such tragedies could be avoided if people refrained from driving into flooded waters. They expressed their sorrow for the loss of Assistant Fire Chief Tobben and extended their condolences to his family and the community.
“Assistant Fire Chief Matthew Tobben died a hero while the Boone County Fire Protection District was conducting rescue efforts near Rangeline Street and Big Bear Boulevard in northern Columbia,” the statement read. The rescue operation in which Tobben lost his life was one of many joint efforts between the Columbia Fire Department and the Boone County Fire Protection District.
During the fateful rescue, the boat carrying Tobben, another firefighter from Columbia, and the two civilians lost power and overturned. While the other three individuals managed to reach safety, Tobben drowned as a result of the boat capsizing. Despite the tragic outcome, the rescue efforts continued, and by the end of the operation, five civilians and one dog were successfully rescued.
The incident has deeply affected the local community and the firefighting fraternity. Tobben was known for his unwavering dedication to his duty and his commitment to saving lives. His death is a stark reminder of the dangers that first responders face daily in their line of work.
The news of Tobben’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief and condolences from the community. Friends, colleagues, and community members have taken to social media to express their sorrow and share their memories of Tobben. Many have praised his bravery and selflessness, highlighting the impact he had on the lives of those he served.
“Tobben was a true hero. He dedicated his life to helping others, and his loss is a tremendous blow to our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time,” one community member wrote on Facebook.
The Boone County Fire Protection District and the Columbia Fire Department have both expressed their gratitude for the support they have received from the public. They have also emphasized the importance of following safety guidelines during severe weather conditions to prevent further tragedies.
Matt Tobben’s career with the Boone County Fire Protection District was marked by his dedication and commitment to serving his community. He was known for his leadership qualities, his expertise in firefighting and rescue operations, and his unwavering resolve in the face of danger. His colleagues remember him as a reliable and courageous leader who was always willing to go above and beyond to ensure the safety of others.
Tobben’s impact extended beyond his professional life. He was deeply involved in community activities and was known for his kindness and willingness to help others. His loss is felt not only by his family and colleagues but also by the many individuals whose lives he touched through his service.
The New Braunfels Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division is conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Tobben’s death. The investigation aims to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the boat capsizing and to identify any measures that could prevent similar incidents in the future.
Authorities have called for patience and cooperation from the public as they carry out the investigation. They have also reiterated the importance of adhering to safety advisories and avoiding risky behaviors, such as driving into flooded areas, which can endanger both the public and first responders.
As the investigation continues, the community is coming together to honor Tobben’s memory and celebrate his life. Vigils, memorial services, and community gatherings are being organized to pay tribute to his legacy and to offer support to his grieving family. The outpouring of love and support is a testament to the profound impact Tobben had on his community.
“Matt was a hero in every sense of the word. He gave his life trying to save others, and his bravery will never be forgotten. We are all devastated by this loss, but we will continue to honor his memory by supporting each other and working together to prevent such tragedies in the future,” said Boone County Assistant Fire Chief Gale Blomenkamp.
The tragic death of Assistant Fire Chief Matt Tobben has left a void in the hearts of many. His unwavering dedication to his duty, his courage in the face of danger, and his selfless service to his community will be remembered and cherished. As the community mourns his loss, they also celebrate his life and the indelible mark he left on those around him.
Tobben’s passing is a reminder of the sacrifices made by first responders every day. It underscores the importance of community support and the need for vigilance and adherence to safety measures during emergencies. The legacy of Matt Tobben will continue to inspire and guide those who follow in his footsteps, ensuring that his spirit of service and bravery lives on.
Assistant Fire Chief Matt Tobben’s obituary and funeral arrangements will be released by his family at a later date.
