CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — Citrus County Fire Rescue crews are mourning the loss of one of their "esteemed" training captains, Michael Fletcher.
The 42-year-old was killed on July 4 in an off-duty boating accident with another vessel on the Crystal River, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) confirmed in a release.
Fletcher was reportedly flung from his boat when the vessel collided with his. FWC says he was pronounced dead after crews recovered him from the water.
Fletcher had been with Citrus County Fire Rescue for six years. Prior to his service in Citrus County, 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."
"Captain Michael Fletcher was a pillar of our department, known for his dedication and compassion," Citrus County Fire Chief Craig Stevens said in a statement. "His loss is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of working alongside him."
The department is asking for privacy for Fletcher's family during this "difficult time."
“I am deeply saddened by the death of one of Citrus County’s own, Captain Michael Fletcher," County Administrator Steve Howard said in a statement. “I extend my deepest and utmost condolences, to Captain Fletcher’s family, and to each member of Citrus County Fire Rescue on the loss of a brother.”
Funeral arrangements and memorial service details are still being finalized and information will be released at a later time.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with Captain Fletcher's family, friends, and colleagues as we mourn the untimely passing of a dedicated member of our firefighting community," the agency said in its release.
Citrus County firefighters have set up a GoFundMe to support Fletcher's family. As of Friday evening, the page has raised $3,870 of its $25,000 goal.