PUTNAM COUNTY, Fla. – A Promising Career Cut Short

A devastating accident took place over the weekend in Putnam County, claiming the lives of two young men. The Florida Highway Patrol has reported that the incident occurred at the intersection of County Road 309 and Browns Fish Camp Road in Crescent City.

Firefighter Tanner Gillespie Identified as One of the Victims

Among the victims was 20-year-old Tanner Gillespie, a promising firefighter from Jacksonville. Tanner had recently commenced his service at the Jacksonville Fire Department and had a bright future ahead of him.

The Jacksonville Fire Department expressed their grief in an email statement, stating, “The JFRD family is deeply saddened by the loss of one of our own. Our beloved firefighter Tanner Gillespie tragically passed away in an off-duty accident over the weekend. Tanner quickly established himself as a dedicated firefighter and employee during his short time with us. Following in the footsteps of his father, retired JFRD Lieutenant Gene Gillespie, Tanner was assigned to Engine 30 in Regency Township. We kindly request that you keep Tanner’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

Another Promising Firefighter in Training

The second victim, a 21-year-old, had just completed his firefighter training but had not yet joined a fire department. His identity has not been disclosed.

The Accident Details

According to the Florida Highway Patrol’s report, the two men were riding on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) behind a pickup truck, heading south on CR 309. As the truck slowed down to make a turn onto Brown’s Fish Camp Road, the ATV failed to decelerate in time and collided with the truck, resulting in the tragic deaths of both the ATV driver and Tanner Gillespie, who was a passenger in the ATV.

Fortunately, no one in the pickup truck sustained any physical injuries during the accident.

Illegal Use of Golf Carts and ATVs on Paved Roads

The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office has noted a concerning rise in the use of golf carts and ATVs on paved roads. It is important to note that such usage is illegal, unless the golf cart is within a designated golf cart community like Welaka. However, Saturday’s unfortunate incident occurred several miles south of Welaka.

Remembering the Lives Lost

Both Tanner Gillespie and the ATV rider were highly regarded by those who knew them. Their untimely deaths have left a void in their respective communities, and they will be deeply missed.