Funeral for Firefighter Expecting His Second Child Postponed After His Wife Goes into Labor

Chicago firefighter Michael Altman, 32, died earlier this month after battling an apartment fire

NEED TO KNOW

• Chicago firefighter Michael Altman, 32, succumbed to his injuries on March 17 after battling an apartment blaze
• His funeral scheduled for March 27 was postponed after his wife went into labor, the Chicago Fire Department said in an update
• A suspect is facing charges of first-degree murder and arson in connection to the fire

The funeral of a 32-year-old Chicago firefighter, who succumbed to his injuries more than a week ago while battling a blaze, has been postponed because his widow went into labor.

In a statement shared with PEOPLE on Thursday, March 26, the Chicago Fire Department said that the funeral service for firefighter/EMT Michael Altman, which was originally planned for Friday morning, March 27, will be rescheduled for a later date.

“Mrs. Altman is in labor,” the department said, referring to the firefighter's widow, Nora Altman.

Altman was critically injured following a blaze that occurred on March 16 in the 1700 block of West North Shore Avenue.

“While working to extinguish the blaze, Firefighter EMT Altman sustained serious injuries and was transported to Stroger Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries," CFD Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt said at a press conference on March 17.

As reported by CW affiliate WGN and CBS affiliate WBBM, the blaze occurred at an apartment building in Rogers Park and crews responded shortly before 11:30 a.m.

According to officials, as Altman was fighting the blaze, the first floor gave under him and he fell into the building's basement.

Nance-Holt said that Altman, who was assigned to Truck 47 in the Edgewater community, would have completed two years as a Chicago firefighter in May. She added that he was the fourth generation member of his family to serve in the Chicago Fire Department. 

“We are heartbroken by yet another loss of our own,” Nance-Holt added. “Michael gave everything in service to the people of Chicago, and we will never forget his courage and sacrifice. Our deepest condolences go out to the Altman family, fellow firefighters, friends and all that loved him and knew him.”

“I am grief-stricken by the loss of Michael Altman,” Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said in a statement shared with PEOPLE on March 17. “His dedicated service to the City of Chicago will never be forgotten. Michael’s love for his family was profound; I am asking for the prayers of the entire city of Chicago as the Altman family mourns the passing.” 

At the time of his death, according to the Yard Foundation, a charity for firefighters, Altman was married with one child and another on the way.

“Mickey was also a loving uncle, cousin and friend to many, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him,” his obituary read. “Mickey had a passion for life and the people around him. He found joy in his jiu-jitsu training, playing 16” softball in the summer, and spending time on the golf course. Above all, he was deeply committed to his family and his service to others.”

“Mickey proudly served as a Chicago Firefighter for two years and was a dedicated member of Local 597 for eight years. His courage, loyalty, and commitment to his community will never be forgotten,” the memorial tribute added.  

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

On Monday March 23, the U.S. Marshals Service announced they made an arrest in the case and that Sheaves Slate has been accused of starting the fire.

Slate is facing charges of first-degree murder and arson in connection to the blaze, PBS station WTTW, CW affliate WGN and NBC affiliate WMAQ reported. The Cook County State's Attorney's Office said he has been detained pending trial, per ABC affiliate WLS. 

In their statement about the funeral’s postponement, the Chicago Fire Department said that Altman’s visitation will continue as scheduled starting Thursday afternoon at St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel in Chicago.

Read the full article here