Chicago Fire Captain David Meyer Dies in Line of Duty Battling West Side Blaze: City Mourns Loss of a Dedicated Hero
CHICAGO, IL — The City of Chicago is mourning the heartbreaking loss of one of its bravest. Captain David Meyer, a 28-year veteran of the Chicago Fire Department, tragically died in the early morning hours of April 23 while responding to a fire in the city’s Austin neighborhood on the West Side.
The blaze erupted shortly before 4 a.m. in a detached garage in the 5500 block of West Crystal Street. Captain Meyer was on the front lines with his crew from Truck 29, working swiftly to contain the flames when a sudden structural collapse occurred. A mayday was declared at 4:18 a.m., and fellow firefighters rushed to pull Meyer from the debris. He was transported to Stroger Hospital, where he was pronounced dead from his injuries.
Fire Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt described the loss as “devastating” and praised Captain Meyer’s legacy of service. “He was not just a leader on the job—he was a mentor, a craftsman, a father, and the rock of his family,” she said during an emotional press briefing. “This department has lost a brother. The city has lost a hero.”
Mayor Brandon Johnson also released a statement, expressing the city’s deep sorrow:
“Captain David Meyer served Chicago with honor, courage, and selflessness for nearly three decades. His death is a tragic reminder of the risks our first responders face every day. We owe him a debt that can never truly be repaid.”
Captain Meyer joined the department in 1996 and quickly became known for his fearless leadership and unwavering commitment to public safety. His colleagues recall him as someone who could always be counted on—on every call, in every moment of crisis. Many also spoke of his craftsmanship outside of work, often building furniture and mentoring others in the trades.
He leaves behind a loving family, including his wife, three daughters, and a son. One of his daughters is currently a student at the University of Iowa. After receiving news of the tragedy, local police and campus officials worked together with state and Chicago authorities to ensure she could return home swiftly to be with her family.
The fire that claimed Captain Meyer’s life is currently under investigation. Early reports indicate it was an aggressive blaze, but the exact cause has not yet been determined. Officials have not confirmed whether the structure was occupied or if there were any additional injuries.
This marks the first Chicago Fire Department line-of-duty death in 2025. Flags across the city have been lowered in Captain Meyer’s honor, and a formal procession and memorial service are being planned.
In the hours following the tragedy, tributes began pouring in on social media from fellow firefighters, community members, and public officials. A growing memorial of flowers, candles, and handwritten messages has taken shape outside Truck 29’s firehouse—a solemn reminder of the deep impact one man had on his department and his city.
The Fire Department’s Peer Support Team and chaplains are offering grief counseling to colleagues and first responders impacted by the loss.
Captain David Meyer lived a life of selfless service, and in his final moments, he embodied the very spirit of what it means to be a firefighter: running toward danger, not away from it, in the name of saving others.
He will be remembered not just as a firefighter, but as a father, a husband, a mentor, and a hero. May his memory be eternal, and may his family find strength in the love and gratitude of the city he gave his life to protect.