A tragic incident in Chicago has led to the death of firefighter Michael Altman, aged 32, who passed away on March 17 after sustaining serious injuries while combating an apartment fire. His funeral, initially set for March 27, has been postponed due to the unexpected arrival of his child, with his widow, Nora Altman, going into labour.
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The Chicago Fire Department announced the postponement of Altman’s funeral in a statement on March 26, confirming that the rescheduled service will take place at a later date. “Mrs. Altman is in labour,” the department shared, reflecting the ongoing personal challenges for Altman’s family during this sorrowful time.
Altman was critically injured while tackling a fire at an apartment building located in the Rogers Park area on March 16. Fire crews received the emergency call just before 11:30 a.m. According to Chicago Fire Department Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt, the incident escalated tragically when the first floor of the building collapsed beneath him, causing him to fall into the basement. He was rushed to Stroger Hospital but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries a day later.
The heartbreaking loss of Altman marks a significant moment for the Chicago Fire Department, where he was assigned to Truck 47 in the Edgewater community. As he approached two years of service with the department, Altman was also noted to be a fourth-generation firefighter in his family. Nance-Holt expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, “We are heartbroken by yet another loss of our own. Michael gave everything in service to the people of Chicago, and we will never forget his courage and sacrifice.”
Mayor Brandon Johnson also extended his condolences, acknowledging Altman’s dedication to the city. “I am grief-stricken by the loss of Michael Altman. His dedicated service to the City of Chicago will never be forgotten,” Johnson remarked. He called for support and prayers for the Altman family, highlighting the profound love Altman had for his family, which he now leaves behind, including one child and another on the way.
Described in his obituary as “Mickey,” Altman was remembered for his passion for life and the lasting impact he made on those around him. He enjoyed jiu-jitsu, summer softball games, and golf, but his foremost commitment was to his family and community service. His dedication to the profession extended beyond the past two years, as he had been a member of Local 597 for an impressive eight years prior to becoming a firefighter.
In a related development, law enforcement has announced the arrest of Sheaves Slate, who is now facing charges of first-degree murder and arson in connection to the fire that took Altman’s life. The U.S. Marshals Service confirmed the arrest following an extensive investigation, ensuring that justice will be pursued amid the grief settling over the community and the fire department.
Despite the postponement of details surrounding the funeral, the Chicago Fire Department confirmed that a visitation for Altman is set to continue as scheduled, beginning on Thursday afternoon at St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel in Chicago. The firefighting community and the public continue to mourn the loss of a dedicated individual who selflessly served his city.