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.
Volusia County, Fla. — A 16-year-old boy has died after being found unresponsive in the Indian River during a weekend camping and fishing trip, according to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities identified the teen as Hunter McKelvin of Paisley. Deputies said he was discovered face-down in the water Saturday morning near a small island east of Maynard May Park in Edgewater.
Members of the group located the teen and immediately began CPR before transporting him by boat to Maynard May Park.
Upon arrival, officers with the Edgewater Police Department and other emergency responders took over life-saving efforts.
McKelvin was then transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased later that morning.
Investigators reported that no visible injuries were observed, and there were no immediate signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances during the initial investigation.
An autopsy has been scheduled as authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.