Tragic Accident Claims the Lives of Jacksonville Firefighter Tanner Gillespie and Another Victim

The Florida Highway Patrol confirmed that the crash took place at the intersection of County Road 309 and Browns Fish Camp Road in Crescent City. The ATV was traveling south on CR 309, following a pick-up truck. As the truck slowed down to make a turn onto Brown’s Fish Camp Road, the ATV was unable to brake in time, resulting in a collision between the two vehicles.

Tanner Gillespie, a promising young firefighter from Jacksonville, was one of the victims involved in the tragic accident. Gillespie had recently joined the Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department and had a bright future ahead of him. The department expressed their grief in a statement, saying, “The JFRD family is mourning the loss of one of our own. This past weekend, Firefighter Tanner Gillespie was tragically killed in an off-duty accident. Tanner quickly developed a reputation as a skilled and dedicated firefighter during his short time with the department. He followed in the footsteps of his father, retired JFRD Lieutenant Gene Gillespie, and was assigned to Engine 30 in the Regency area of the city. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Tanner’s family and friends during this difficult time.”

The other victim in the crash was a 21-year-old who had also recently completed firefighter training, although he had not yet joined a fire department. Both men had dreams of serving their communities as firefighters, and their untimely deaths have left those who knew them deeply saddened.

The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office has expressed concern over the increasing number of golf carts and ATVs traveling on paved roads, which is not permitted unless in designated golf cart communities such as Welaka. However, the crash involving Gillespie and the ATV driver occurred several miles south of Welaka, where such vehicles are not legally allowed.

The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with off-road vehicles on public roads. Authorities urge individuals to adhere to traffic laws and regulations to prevent further accidents and loss of life.

The Florida Highway Patrol report confirmed that no occupants of the pick-up truck involved in the collision sustained physical injuries. However, the emotional impact of the accident on all parties involved cannot be understated.

As the community mourns the loss of Tanner Gillespie and the other victim, their dedication to becoming firefighters and their positive impact on those around them will be remembered. Their tragic deaths serve as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by emergency service personnel, both on and off duty.