The story is related in the legend of Sebastian that Agrestius Chromatius, allegedly prefect of Rome,[1] condemned several Christians to death.

[2] Tiburtius was the only son of Agrestius Chromatius; he was also baptized through the persuasion of Sebastian, who was his godfather in baptism, according to this legend.

[3] Tiburtius lay hidden during the persecution by Roman Emperor Diocletian in his father's house.

He confessed his faith, which he confirmed by a miracle, for, protecting himself only by the sign of the cross, he walked barefoot over red-hot coals without suffering any injury.

"[5] The commemoration of him that was included in the General Roman Calendar was removed in 1969, because "apart from his name, the only thing known of him is that he was buried in the Inter duas lauros cemetery on the Via Labicana on an 11 August".