Local News
Chicago Fire Captain David Meyer Killed Battling West Side Garage Fire
CHICAGO, IL – A veteran firefighter with the Chicago Fire Department was killed in the line of duty early Wednesday morning while responding to a garage fire on the city’s West Side.
Captain David Meyer, a member of the department since 1996 and currently assigned to Truck 29, tragically lost his life while battling a blaze in the 5500 block of West Crystal Street in the Austin neighborhood.
Fire Department officials announced his death during a press conference later that morning.
According to CFD, the fire was reported around 4:00 a.m. and involved a detached garage located behind a multifamily apartment building.
Witnesses stated the flames may have originated in nearby alley trash cans before spreading to the garage.
During firefighting operations, the roof of the structure collapsed, fatally injuring Captain Meyer.
Despite immediate rescue efforts, he succumbed to his injuries.
All residents from the adjacent apartments were able to evacuate safely, and no additional injuries have been reported.
Captain Meyer leaves behind a wife, daughters, and a son.
The Chicago Fire Department expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating in a message posted on X (formerly Twitter), “This is a sad day for CFD and for the city of Chicago.”
The cause of the fire and the events leading to the structural collapse remain under investigation.
The city and fire department are offering support to Captain Meyer’s family and fellow firefighters during this time of mourning.
Captain Meyer is remembered not only for his decades of service, but for the courage and dedication he demonstrated in protecting the people of Chicago.
CHICAGO, IL – A Chicago firefighter has tragically succumbed to injuries sustained while battling a fire early Wednesday morning in the city’s Austin neighborhood.
The incident occurred around 5:30 a.m. at a property located at 5505 West Crystal Street.
According to the Chicago Fire Department, a mayday was issued after the firefighter went down during operations inside a burning structure.
The fire involved a detached garage situated behind a multifamily apartment building.
Preliminary reports suggest that part of the garage suffered a structural collapse, striking the firefighter during the response.
He was immediately transported to Stroger Hospital in critical condition, where he later died from his injuries.
CFD identified the firefighter as Captain David Meyer, 54, who served on Engine 96 and Truck 29.
Chicago Fire Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt said Captain Meyer served 28 years on the job.
Commissioner Nance-holt said he leaves behind a wife, parents, three daughters and a son.
At this time, no other injuries have been reported.
The identity of the fallen firefighter has not yet been released pending family notification.
The cause of the fire and the specific circumstances surrounding the structural collapse remain under active investigation.
The Chicago Fire Department and city officials are expected to release further information as it becomes available.
This tragic loss underscores the dangers first responders face daily in service to their communities.
The thoughts and condolences of the City of Chicago are with the firefighter’s family, loved ones, and fellow members of the fire department during this deeply difficult time.