Boone County first responder dies during swift water rescue operation

A tragedy for a first-responder in Boone County, Missouri today.

Boone County Fire Protection District Assistant Chief Mathew Tobben died this morning during a swift water rescue operation.

Assistant Chief Matt Tobben was assisting the Columbia Fire Department during a swift water rescue operation at Rangeline Street and Bear Creek early this morning.

The firefighters had rescued two individuals when the zodiac boat overturned and Chief Tobben was thrown from the boat and drowned.

The Columbia Firefighter and the two victims originally rescued were able to be rescued and are doing O.K.