A firefighter with the Chicago Fire Department has died after sustaining critical injuries while responding to a major apartment fire in Rogers Park, Chicago.
Firefighter injured during intense rescue operation
Officials said the incident occurred Monday morning during a 2-11 extra-alarm fire at a four-story residential building on North Shore Avenue. Nearly 100 firefighters were dispatched to contain the blaze.
The firefighter, identified as Michael Altman, 32, fell from the first floor into the building’s basement while battling the fire. Crews rescued him within about a minute and rushed him to Stroger Hospital of Cook County in critical condition.
Severe injuries and tragic death
Authorities said Altman suffered extensive second- and third-degree burns. Despite emergency medical efforts, he later died from his injuries.
On Tuesday, fellow firefighters gathered to honor him as his remains were transported to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office.
City leaders honor fallen firefighter
Chicago Fire Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt expressed deep sorrow over the loss, calling Altman’s death a devastating blow to the department.
“Michael gave everything in service to the people of Chicago,” she said, honoring his bravery and sacrifice.
Brandon Johnson, Mayor of Chicago, also paid tribute, describing Altman as a hero whose courage and dedication will be remembered across the city.
Legacy of service
Altman had nearly completed two years with the department and was assigned to Truck 47 in the Edgewater neighborhood. He came from a long line of firefighters, as a fourth-generation member of the department.
His grandfather, Edward P. Altman Jr., previously served as Chicago’s fire commissioner.
Investigation ongoing
The cause of the fire remains under investigation as officials work to determine what led to the deadly incident.