Chicago Fire Loses Beloved Firehouse 51 Member

But Severide Finds Unexpected Support from Van Meter as Relationships Evolve

Jan. 27, 2026 at 10:15pm

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Chicago Fire faced a tragic loss at the start of the 2026 TV season, with the decommissioning of Engine 51 and the departure of beloved firefighter Mouch. Meanwhile, Severide's close friend and colleague Van Meter was left fighting for his life after a dangerous call, adding to the heartache at Firehouse 51. However, as Van Meter recovered, his relationship with Severide deepened, providing the lieutenant with much-needed support during this difficult time.

Why it matters

The departure of Mouch and the uncertainty surrounding Van Meter's fate highlighted the precarious nature of the firefighting profession and the close-knit bonds forged within Firehouse 51. The evolving relationship between Severide and Van Meter also underscored how the show's characters are navigating major changes in their personal and professional lives.

The details

Mouch, a long-time fixture at Firehouse 51, was transferred to a different station when Engine 51 was decommissioned, marking a bittersweet transition for the beloved character. Meanwhile, Van Meter's near-death experience after a dangerous call left Severide and the rest of the crew grappling with the possibility of losing another colleague. As Van Meter recovered, Severide and Stella found solace in each other, with Severide even spending time with Van Meter's daughter at the hospital.

  • In the 2026 TV season premiere, Mouch was transferred to Firehouse 40 after Engine 51 was decommissioned.
  • Van Meter was left unconscious and in grave condition for the first three episodes of the new year, leaving the crew uncertain of his fate.
  • By the fourth episode, Van Meter's survival was confirmed, though he faced one final scare when he started choking on his breathing tube.

The players

Mouch

A long-time firefighter at Firehouse 51 who was transferred to a different station when Engine 51 was decommissioned.

Severide

The lieutenant of Squad 3 at Firehouse 51, who has seen his status quo change significantly in recent seasons, including the departure of his longtime colleague Casey and the promotion of Boden.

Van Meter

A captain at the Office of Fire Investigation (OFI) who has developed a close working relationship and friendship with Severide over the years, especially after Severide lost his father, Benny.

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What they’re saying

“Severide and Van Meter have become closer and closer over the years. And as we saw in the episode that Herrmann's house was on fire, Van Meter has seen a bit of what kind of father Severide could be, and has another element to share with him.”

— Reza Tabrizi, Executive Producer (CinemaBlend)

What’s next

The promo for the next episode of Chicago Fire showcases the love triangle between Vasquez, Violet, and Carver, with Jake Lockett returning for the first time since the Season 13 finale.

The takeaway

The departure of Mouch and the uncertainty surrounding Van Meter's fate underscored the precarious nature of the firefighting profession and the close-knit bonds forged within Firehouse 51. However, the evolving relationship between Severide and Van Meter provided a glimmer of hope, as the two men found support in each other during this difficult time.