Firefighters escorted Altman's body from Cook County Hospital to the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office.
Altman, a 32-year-old CFD EMT, fell from a Rogers Park building's first floor, which collapsed, and into the basement around 11:30 a.m. Monday. It happened in the 1700-block of West North Shore Avenue.
Altman was brought to Stroger Hospital in serious condition on Monday and died from his injuries on Tuesday.
"We are heartbroken by yet another loss of our own. Michael gave everything in service to the people of Chicago, and we will never forget his courage and sacrifice," said CFD Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt, as she held back tears. "Our deepest condolences go out to the Altman family, fellow firefighters, friends, and all that loved and knew him."
Altman, assigned to truck #47 in the Edgewater neighborhood, was on the job for nearly two years. He leaves behind his young son and his wife, who is pregnant with their second child. A donation page has been set up for the family.
"Today, the city of Chicago lost not only a firefighter, but lost a hero," said Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. "Let this be a constant reminder of how important it is that we continue to put our arms around our first responders and continue to support them."
Altman was a fourth-generation firefighter with CFD. His grandfather was, at one time, the commissioner of the fire department.
Chicago firefighter dies after falling in Rogers Park building fire, CFD says
Ald. Jim Gardiner, who represents the city's 45th Ward, is a former firefighter who knows the family.
"It's just a reminder of, these things unfortunately happen. I don't think there's anything anyone could've done," Gardiner said. "It's an extremely sad day, first and foremost, for the Altman family, who is in our thoughts and our prayers."
Late Tuesday, purple and black bunting was being installed at CFD headquarters to show honor, respect, and mourning of a public servant. Flowers and a pair of boots were also place on the ground.
Altman is described as always putting others first. His two-year mark with CFD would have been in May.
CFD said seven people who live in the building that caught fire were displaced, but they were all able to get out. No one else was injured.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, but fire crews believe the fire originated somewhere in the back of the building.
Johnson issued a statement, saying, "I am grief-stricken by the loss of Michael Altman. 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. He was not just a public servant, but a true hero. His service was marked by constant displays of courage, bravery, and strength. As we grieve and offer condolences, we must remember how important it is to support our first responders especially as they navigate this loss."
Nance-Holt issued a statement, saying, "We are heartbroken by yet another loss of our own. 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 and all who loved him."