Suspect in Chicago Firefighter's Murder Set Fire After Argument with Tenants: Prosecutors

The suspect, Sheaves Slate, was squatting in the apartment building where the deadly fire broke out, authorities say.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 9:34pm

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A 27-year-old suspect, Sheaves Slate, has been charged with murder and arson in the death of Chicago firefighter Michael Altman. Prosecutors allege that Slate, who was squatting in the apartment building, got into an argument with two tenants and then went to the basement and set a mattress on fire, leading to the blaze that killed Altman.

Why it matters

The tragic death of a 32-year-old firefighter who was killed while trying to protect the public has sparked outrage and renewed calls for accountability in the criminal justice system. This incident highlights issues around homelessness, mental health, and the need for stronger measures to prevent repeat offenders from committing violent crimes.

The details

According to prosecutors, Sheaves Slate was squatting in the apartment building near North Shore and Ravenswood Avenues in Chicago. On Monday, he got into an argument with two tenants and then went to the basement where he set a mattress on fire. Firefighter Michael Altman was battling the blaze when he fell through a burning floor and suffered burns to 90% of his body, later dying at the hospital.

  • On Monday, Slate got into an argument with two tenants in the apartment building.
  • Slate then went to the basement and set a mattress on fire, leading to the deadly blaze.
  • Firefighter Michael Altman was critically injured while fighting the fire and later died at the hospital.

The players

Sheaves Slate

A 27-year-old suspect who has been charged with murder and arson in the death of Chicago firefighter Michael Altman. Prosecutors allege Slate was squatting in the apartment building where the fire broke out.

Michael Altman

A 32-year-old Chicago firefighter who died after falling through a burning floor while battling the blaze. Altman suffered burns to 90% of his body.

Patrick Cleary

A representative of the Chicago Fire Fighters Union Local 2 who expressed support for Altman's family and called for accountability in the criminal justice system.

Susana Mendoza

The Illinois State Comptroller who said Altman was "a hero in Chicago" and called for judges to "lock up these dangerous individuals" instead of allowing a "revolving door with no accountability."

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What they’re saying

“We support our brothers and sisters, and we always will. Unfortunately, we've had a lot of tragedies the last couple years.”

— Patrick Cleary, Chicago Fire Fighters Union Local 2

“We need to make sure that our judges are also doing the correct thing, which is locking up these dangerous individuals, no longer make this a revolving door with no accountability, let's... this individual accountable.”

— Susana Mendoza, Illinois State Comptroller

What’s next

Slate's case was continued to Monday at 11:30 a.m., when a judge will decide whether to allow him out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the need for stronger measures to address homelessness, mental health issues, and repeat offenders in the criminal justice system. It also underscores the immense sacrifices made by firefighters like Michael Altman who put their lives on the line to protect their communities.