BUNNELL, FL – The Bunnell Police Department is investigating the death of a firefighter/EMT candidate who was participating in pre-employment physical agility testing with Flagler County Fire Rescue (FCFR).
At approximately 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 22, 2025, FCFR conducted its standard pre-employment physical agility testing at the fire tower located at 655 Justice Lane, Bunnell. The candidate, Fendrick Gabaud, a 40-year-old man from Ormond Beach, recently graduated from fire school and was seeking employment as a Firefighter/EMT with FCFR. He reportedly was in good shape had no prior employment as a firefighter.
According to FCFR Fire Chief Michael Tucker and training staff, the candidate successfully completed the required physical agility test, which included climbing three stories of stairs with firefighting equipment, hose lifts, advancing charged hose lines, spraying targets, and dragging a 150-pound manikin. Witnesses reported the candidate finished well within the allotted time. Weather conditions at the time were warm, with AccuWeather reporting the temperature in Bunnell at 85 degrees at 10:00 a.m.
After completing the test and removing his gear, the candidate complained of shortness of breath and feeling unwell. Paramedics on scene immediately rendered aid, but the candidate became unresponsive. He was transported to AdventHealth Palm Coast, where he was later pronounced deceased. His family has been notified.
The Bunnell Police Department, along with the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Seventh District Medical Examiner’s Office, is conducting a thorough investigation. At this stage, there is no indication of accident or foul play. Investigators are approaching this case with the utmost sensitivity for the victim’s family, as well as compassion for the Flagler County Fire Rescue family who shared in this tragic event. Additional details will be released as they become available.
Bunnell Police Chief David Brannon expressed his condolences and stated, “Our hearts go out to the family of this young man whose life was tragically cut short, as well as to the men and women of Flagler County Fire Rescue who stood beside him during his final moments. This is a heartbreaking reminder of the risks faced by those who pursue a career in public safety. On behalf of the Bunnell Police Department, I extend our deepest sympathy to his loved ones and to our colleagues in the fire service.”
For additional inquiries, please contact Bunnell Police Lieutenant Shane Groth at (386) 600-7950 or sgroth@bunnellpd.us.
