Chevy Gall Obituary, Death – A tragic accident in Franklin County, Missouri, claimed the life of a young firefighter who was responding to a water rescue call. The incident occurred on Friday afternoon, April 5, 2025, and has left the local community and fire department grieving.
The firefighter has been identified as 16-year-old Chevy Gall, a volunteer with the Beaufort-Leslie Fire Protection District. Gall lost his life in a vehicle crash while on his way to assist with a water rescue operation. According to officials, Gall was driving his personal vehicle at the time of the accident and was not operating an emergency fire truck. Additionally, he did not have emergency lights or sirens activated on his vehicle since it was privately owned.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) reported that the crash happened at approximately 4:15 p.m. on U.S. Route 50, near Missouri Route 185. Gall was traveling when his vehicle crossed the center line of the highway, resulting in a collision with another vehicle coming from the opposite direction. The front-end crash was severe, and emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene.
Gall was transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Unfortunately, despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead due to the injuries he sustained in the crash. The news has devastated both his family and the firefighting community.
The driver of the other vehicle involved in the accident was identified as a 30-year-old man. MSHP officials stated that he was also transported to a hospital, but he only suffered minor injuries from the collision.
Beaufort-Leslie Fire Protection District Fire Chief Terry Feth released a heartfelt statement on social media, expressing the deep sorrow felt by the department and the entire community. Chief Feth described the tragedy as “a fire chief’s worst nightmare” and said everyone is heartbroken over the loss of Gall. He emphasized that Gall died while answering a call to help others, embodying the selflessness and bravery of first responders.
Chief Feth extended his condolences to Gall’s family, friends, and fellow firefighters, asking for support and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. The loss of such a young firefighter, dedicated to serving his community, has left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Troop C division, which oversees much of the St. Louis area, is leading the investigation into the crash. Authorities are working to gather more details about the circumstances that led to the accident. At this time, no additional information has been released regarding the investigation’s findings or the possible factors that contributed to the crash.
Chevy Gall’s death serves as a somber reminder of the risks that first responders face daily, even when off duty or responding to emergencies in their own vehicles. Volunteer firefighters like Gall play a vital role in small communities, often responding quickly to emergencies and putting their lives on the line to assist those in need.
The Beaufort-Leslie Fire Protection District and the surrounding community are now mourning the loss of a dedicated young firefighter who showed great courage and commitment at a very young age. Tributes have poured in from local residents, neighboring fire departments, and public safety organizations, honoring Gall’s service and sacrifice.
As the investigation continues, the fire department and Gall’s family are focusing on remembering his life, dedication, and the positive impact he had on those around him. Plans for memorial services or tributes have not yet been publicly announced, but it is expected that the community will come together to honor Gall’s memory.
This tragic event highlights both the dangers of emergency response and the bravery of those who answer the call to help others, regardless of their age or status. The loss of Chevy Gall will be deeply felt throughout Franklin County and beyond, as the community comes to terms with the untimely passing of a young hero who gave his life in service to others.