Fire rescue departments are mourning the death of Colton Tibbetts, 23, a Jacksonville firefighter, who died in a crash in Melrose on Wednesday morning, a witness told TV20.
Florida Highway Patrol troopers say a 23-year-old man lost control of his car on State Road 26 near Melrose Elementary School around 2:30 a.m. The vehicle veered off the road, hitting a sign and multiple trees.
A witness identified the driver as Colton Tibbetts. The Jacksonville Firefighters Death Benefit Fund, Inc. confirmed Rescue Engineer Colton Tibbetts died in a single-vehicle crash in the early morning hours.
He’s the son of recently retired Lt. Brian Tibbetts, a Jacksonville firefighter.
In addition to working for the Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department starting in 2022, family members posted on social media that Tibbetts previously worked for the Melrose Fire Department.
The Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department posted the following statement on social media.
“This morning, active duty Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department Engineer Colton Tibbetts passed away. He was a beloved son, brother, friend, and a dedicated firefighter who served our community with pride.
Colton followed in his father Brian’s footsteps when he joined JFRD three years ago. In November, he was promoted to Engineer at just 22 years old, a reflection of his commitment, work ethic, and the firefighter he was becoming.
We ask that you keep the Tibbetts family, his crew, and all members of JFRD in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
