CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — Preparations are underway to lay to rest a beloved member of Citrus County Fire Rescue.
Training Captain Michael Fletcher died on the Fourth of July when Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials said a vessel collided with his boat, ejecting him.
Officials said Fletcher was pronounced dead when they recovered him from the water.
"It's going to be really hard for us to recover from this," said Fire Chief Craig Stevens.
Stevens said Fletcher was positive, outgoing and always found ways to get any job done. However, his leadership skills inspired others to be leaders and brought the best out of the team.
"He was always helping people and that's why he did such a good job at what he does because that's what it's all about," Stevens said.
Fletcher was with Citrus County Fire Rescue for six years. Prior, the agency said he spent about 20 years with Marion County Fire Rescue, "demonstrating exceptional leadership and expertise in training our firefighters to uphold the highest standards of safety and service."
Stevens said he's known Fletcher prior to his service with Citrus County Fire Rescue. The two would look after each other's kids.
A fake GoFundMe in relation to Fletcher was posted earlier this week, but has since been taken down. The Citrus County Sheriff's Office said it is "diligently investigating the situation."
A spokesperson for GoFundMe wrote in part, "GoFundMe has zero tolerance for the misuse of our platform and takes swift action against those who try to exploit the generosity of our community."
A spokesperson added zero funds were raised.
"For people to do that as it's just evil to even think about it," Stevens said.
Despite that incident, Stevens said the focus is making sure his family is able to get the support they need.
A funeral for Fletcher will be held Saturday at Seven Rivers Church in Lecanto. A procession for Fletcher will also take place starting at Citrus County Fire Rescue Station 9.
FWC is still investigating the deadly boat incident.
Captain Fletcher was 42-years-old.
If you'd like to donate to the GoFundMe put together by Citrus County firefighters, visit this link.