Young Jacksonville firefighter identified as one of two victims in fatal accident

A tragic accident in Putnam County, Florida has claimed the lives of two young men, including a recently appointed firefighter from Jacksonville.

Putnam County, Fla. – A devastating accident involving an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and a pickup truck on Saturday has resulted in the loss of two lives. The incident occurred at the intersection of County Road 309 and Browns Fish Camp Road in Crescent City, Putnam County, leaving the community in shock.

One of the victims has been identified as 20-year-old Tanner Gillespie, who had recently embarked on his career as a firefighter in Jacksonville. Tanner’s dedication and commitment to serving the community had earned him a place within the Jacksonville Fire Department (JFRD). The news of his untimely demise has deeply saddened his colleagues and loved ones.

In an official statement, the JFRD expressed their grief, stating, “The JFRD family mourns the loss of our beloved firefighter, Tanner Gillespie, who tragically passed away in an off-duty accident over the weekend. Tanner had just begun his journey with us and possessed immense potential. During his short tenure, he established himself as a competent and dedicated firefighter. Following in the footsteps of his father, retired JFRD Lieutenant Gene Gillespie, Tanner was assigned to Engine 30 in Regency Township. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Tanner’s family and friends during this difficult time.”

The second victim, a 21-year-old who had recently completed firefighter training but had not yet joined a fire department, also lost his life in the accident.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) report, the fatal collision occurred when the ATV, carrying the two young men, was travelling south on CR 309, following a pickup truck. As the truck decelerated to make a turn onto Brown’s Fish Camp Road, the ATV driver was unable to slow down in time, resulting in a collision with the truck. Tragically, both the ATV driver and Tanner Gillespie, who was a passenger in the ATV, succumbed to their injuries.

Remarkably, no occupants of the pickup truck sustained any physical injuries in the accident.

The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office has reported an increase in the number of golf carts and ATVs being driven on paved roads. However, it is important to note that this practice is illegal unless the golf cart is being used within a designated golf cart community, such as Welaka. The location of the accident, several miles south of Welaka, indicates a violation of this law.

Both Tanner Gillespie and the ATV rider were highly respected and admired by those who knew them. Their untimely deaths have left a void in the hearts of their loved ones and the firefighting community.