Assistant fire chief dies while attempting to make swift water rescue, officials say

Officials said Assistant Chief Mathew Tobben has died while assisting in a swift water rescue operation. (SOURCE: KMOV)
Published: Jul. 8, 2024 at 6:10 PM EDT

BOONE COUNTY, Mo. (KMOV/Gray News) - An assistant fire chief in Missouri died during a swift water rescue operation, according to authorities.

The Boone County Fire Protection District announced the loss of Assistant Chief Mathew Tobben Monday morning.

Tobben was assisting the Columbia Fire Department during a swift water rescue at Rangline Street and Bear Creek early Monday morning.

The firefighters rescued two people when the Zodiak boat overturned, throwing Tobben from the boat where he sadly drowned.

The other firefighters and the original two victims were able to be rescued and are now stable.