Missouri Governor ? Michael L. Parson

Office of Communications

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 12,?2024

Governor Parson Orders Flags Lowered to Half-Staff in Honor of Boone County Fire Protection District Assistant Chief Matthew Tobben ?

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) ? Today, Governor Mike Parson ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be lowered to half-staff at all government buildings in Boone County, the Fire Fighters Memorial of Missouri in Kingdom City, and firehouses statewide on Saturday, July 13, from sunrise to sunset in honor of Boone County Fire Protection District Assistant Chief Matthew Tobben. ?

?Assistant Chief Matt Tobben?s life was defined by courageous, selfless public service,? Governor Parson said. ?Within five days, Mr. Tobben took part in two daring rescues of flooding victims in dangerous swift water conditions, and that's just one example of his nearly 20 years of commitment to the wellbeing of his fellow citizens. Teresa and I extend our condolences to Mr. Tobben's loved ones as we keep them all in our prayers."

After heavy overnight rain led to the flooding of Bear Creek before dawn on July 8, Tobben assisted a firefighter with the Columbia Fire Department in the swift water rescue of two victims. The civilians and Columbia firefighter survived after the rescue boat overturned.

Tobben, 42, had joined the Boone County Fire Protection District on May 1, 2024, as Assistant Chief of Training. He had previously served nearly 20 years with the Union Fire Protection District, rising to the rank of Assistant Chief. Tobben had been a member of Missouri Task Force 1 since 2012 and rose to the rank of Rescue Squad Officer. He deployed to seven national disasters as a member of Missouri Task Force 1.

The flags will be held at half-staff on the day Assistant Chief Tobben is laid to rest. To view the proclamation, click here.

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