Family of 23-year-old JFRD engineer who died says they’re thankful for ‘love and support’

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The family of a 23-year-old Jacksonville Fire and Rescue engineer who died on Wednesday morning said they are thankful for all the love and support that they have received.

The family posted on Facebook expressing their gratitude to the community.

In a post on social media, JFRD said that Colton R. Tibbetts joined the agency three years ago, and in November, was promoted to engineer at just 22 years old.

“He was a beloved son, brother, friend, and a dedicated firefighter who served our community with pride,” JFRD said. “We ask that you keep the Tibbetts family, his crew, and all members of JFRD in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

The Jacksonville Firefighters Death Benefit Fund also posted to social media with a tribute to Tibbetts, noting that he came from a family of firefighters.

The post also stated that Tibbetts died following a single-vehicle crash that happened on Wednesday morning, and that the page will update the community on funeral arrangements once they are finalized.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a 23-year-old man was killed in a crash early Wednesday morning in Putnam County.

The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office mentioned that the crash took place in another county in their tribute to Tibbetts.

“We have the utmost respect for those who put their lives on the line to protect the people of our great city. He chose public service as a career, following in his father’s footsteps,” JSO wrote on social media.

Mayor Donna Deegan also sent her prayers to Tibbetts’ family and the entire JFRD family.

“Jacksonville will always be grateful for his decision to serve our community and carry on his father’s legacy as a firefighter,” she wrote.