A tragic loss has struck the Beaufort-Leslie Fire Protection District and the wider community of Missouri. A sixteen-year-old volunteer firefighter, Chevy Gall, died while responding to a call for assistance on Saturday afternoon.
Gall was en route to a reported water rescue when his vehicle was involved in a collision at approximately 4:15 p.m. near Beaufort, a small town with fewer than 2,000 residents. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, his vehicle crossed the center line and struck a cargo van traveling on Highway 50 east of MO-185.
“Tonight is a fire chief’s worst nightmare,” stated Fire Chief Terry Feth in an emotional release. “We are heartbroken by the loss of one of our own. Chevy died while answering the call to help others. Our entire department is grieving, as we mourn with Chevy’s family, friends, and our fellow first responders during this incredibly difficult time.”
The driver of the cargo van, a 30-year-old man, sustained minor injuries and was treated at a local hospital. While the precise cause of the crash remains under investigation, officials noted that the area had been subject to flash flood warnings prior to the incident, although water levels were reported to have receded by the time of the accident.
The Chief Mason Griffith Foundation expressed their sorrow:
“In a heartbreaking turn of events, he became involved in a motor vehicle accident and, despite the tireless efforts of medical professionals, succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. Chevy’s passing leaves behind his loving parents and two siblings, who are engulfed in grief.”
The foundation highlighted the family’s already existing pain, noting that they were previously mourning the loss of Gall’s uncle, aunt and cousins, who had died in a separate accident.
“This unimaginable situation has cast a shadow over our entire community, reminding us of the tremendous sacrifices our first responders make every day,”
the foundation added, requesting donations to support Gall’s family during this time of profound grief.
Sunday saw a somber display of respect and solidarity as an American flag was raised over the I-270 overpass, accompanied by a dignified transfer ceremony where multiple agencies lined the route with emergency vehicles in Washington, Missouri.
