The Illinois governor, JB Pritzker, is currently under fire after announcing that all state flags would fly at half-staff in honor of a firefighter who died during a fire. The issue was how he framed the firefighter’s death, saying that he had “passed away,” while a man had already been charged with his murder via arson.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker shared his proclamation on X one day after firefighter Michael Altman succumbed to his injuries in a Chicago hospital. His post was viewed 484,000 times, with its reach amplified by the sheer number of overwhelmingly negative responses to his message.
“Firefighter Michael Altman passed away in the line of duty after battling a fire in Rogers Park,” Pritzker said while ordering flags to fly at half-staff in Altman’s honor. “Our hearts are with his family and the CFD as we grieve the loss of this hero. […] May his memory be a blessing.”
Quickly, however, readers added a community note to the Illinois governor’s post. Rather than him “passing away” while fulfilling his duties, Altman was allegedly murdered by a man named Sheaves Slate.
Suspect Arrested And Charged
As reported by ABC7, prosecutors alleged that Slate, while squatting in a building, started a fire in its basement. It allegedly occurred during an argument with tenants on March 16. The Chicago Fire Department responded to the scene, including Michael Altman.
Tragically, Altman fell through the building’s first floor after it collapsed and into the basement. As a result, he suffered serious injuries. A day later, he succumbed to his injuries.
On March 18, as per a U.S. Marshals Service statement, Slate was arrested. On Monday, March 23, he was charged with first-degree murder and aggravated arson in connection with Altman’s death.
Reactions To Pritzker’s Post
Given the nature of Altman’s death, the Illinois governor’s post was met with criticism, sparking heated responses and reactions. Some users called out Pritzker for framing his death the wrong way, with one viewer commenting, “They tell the story how they see fit.” Others held him responsible for what happened to Altman, with one person saying, “Your refusal to hold criminals accountable for anything in your state led to this man’s death. Shame on you!” Other users continued to mourn Altman, with one saying, “Please keep the Altman family in your prayers.”
The post’s virality and the subsequent backlash are easily explained by the continuous political divide. Pritzker, in particular, has been very vocal against President Trump, with many pointing that out in the comments.
ABC7 reported that his funeral, scheduled for Friday, March 27, was postponed after Altman’s widow went into labor. She gave birth to a daughter.
