Chicago Fire Department officials announced on Mar. 17 that firefighter Mike Altman, 32, died from injuries he sustained while battling a fire at an apartment building in Rogers Park. Altman had been with the department for nearly two years and was the fourth generation in his family to serve as a Chicago firefighter.
Altman’s death highlights the risks firefighters face in their line of duty and the impact such losses have on their families and communities. The incident occurred at an apartment building located at 1757 W. North Shore Ave., where over 100 fire department personnel responded to a blaze that started around 11:30 a.m. Monday and was extinguished by about 1:15 p.m.
According to Chicago Fire Department Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt, “We are heartbroken by yet another loss of our own. We will never forget his courage and sacrifice.” Nance-Holt also noted that Altman’s grandfather, Edward P. Altman, served as commissioner of the fire department from 1996 to 1999 under then Mayor Richard M. Daley.
Altman was conducting a search inside the building when he fell through the first-story floor into a basement room engulfed in flames, according to supporters who launched a fundraiser for his family. He suffered burns on 90 percent of his body and was taken to Stroger Hospital’s burn unit in serious to critical condition before being pronounced dead Tuesday.
Alderman Maria Hadden (49th) said, “His bravery and selflessness saved countless lives yesterday, and the people of Rogers Park are all grateful for Mike and the rest of the Chicago Fire Department.” Nance-Holt thanked medical staff at Cook County Hospital for their efforts to save Altman.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but no other injuries were reported. Altman is survived by his wife, young child, and another baby on the way. Over $155,000 has been raised for his family as of Tuesday afternoon through community support efforts.
Altman is the first firefighter to die in a blaze this year; last April, Captain David Meyer died fighting a garage fire on North Pine Avenue. Four firefighters lost their lives battling fires in 2023—the deadliest year since 1998.
