Veteran Chicago Fire Department member dies during training exercise, officials say

Veteran Chicago Fire Department member dies during training exercise, officials say

A Chicago Fire Department member died Thursday during a training exercise, department officials said.

CHICAGO - A Chicago Fire Department member died Thursday during a training exercise, department officials said.

What we know:

The incident occurred about 3 p.m. in the 6600 block of North Kedzie Avenue.

In a social media post, the Chicago Fire Department said the member had served with the department for 30 years.

Ald. Debra Silverstein, 50th Ward, later identified the firefighter as Engineer Steven Decker.

Steven M. Decker | CFD

"It is with profound sadness that I share the heartbreaking news that a 30-year veteran of the Chicago Fire Department passed away today during a training exercise in our community. Engineer Steven Decker of our local Engine 71 lost his life in service to our city. His sacrifice will never be forgotten.

"Engineer Decker served the Chicago Fire Department with honor and dedication since 1997, spending nearly three decades protecting others. This is a devastating loss to Engine 71 and to all of the brave men and women of the Chicago Fire Department. On behalf of the 50th Ward, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, loved ones, and fellow first responders.

"Every day, firefighters put themselves in harm’s way to protect our city. Their courage, dedication, and service do not go unnoticed. Please join me in keeping Engineer Decker’s family and all who knew and served alongside him in your thoughts and prayers," Silverstein said.

Traffic on Chicago’s North Side came to a standstill as first responders blocked streets for a procession of emergency vehicles along Western Avenue.

At Foster and Western avenues, Truck 12 raised its ladder as first responders and residents paused in tribute.

Dozens of police and fire vehicles escorted the ambulance from St. Francis Hospital in Evanston to the Cook County medical examiner’s office on the city’s West Side.

What we don't know:

Officials have not released details about the training exercise, which took place in a parking lot across from Park 538, a narrow green space in the 50th Ward.

The cause of Decker’s death has also not been released. However, CFD said he "suffered a medical emergency during an annual equipment test."