COLUMBIA, Mo. – An assistant chief at the Boone County Fire Protection District died during a water rescue operation Monday morning.
Assistant Chief Matt Tobben passed away while assisting the Columbia Fire Department during a swift water rescue operation that took place at Rangline Street and Bear Creek early Monday morning.
The incident occurred after firefighters had rescued two individuals when the zodiac boat suddenly overturned and tossed Chief Tobben from the boat, causing him to drown.
The Columbia Firefighter and the two victims initially rescued were able to be rescued after the boat overturned and are doing okay.