14 CPD officers honored for investigation, arrest in Chicago firefighter's death

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago police officers were honored for their role catching the arson suspect blamed for the death of firefighter Michael Altman.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

Chicago Fire Department Commissioner Nance-Holt personally thanked the police officers who worked in the case.

She described this moment as bittersweet as the department and Altman's family continue to grieve.

Fourteen CPD members were recognized for their work in the case.

The investigators who worked around clock to make an arrest were recognized and given awards during a ceremony on Thursday.

"You guys got together along with our department and put the pieces together and you figure it out for us," Nance-Holt said. "Although it will not bring him back, we will let the family know we have somebody in custody who did this and made this a living hell for everybody."

Altman died of his injuries after he fell through the first floor of a burning apartment building in Rogers Park in March.

Through interviews and surveillance video, investigators say they learned 27-year-old Sheaves Slate had trespassed and got in an argument with people in the building the night before the fire.

"Members of the Area Three technology center scoured hours of surveillance video and retrieved images from the area of the fire through the video Slate was observed leaving the scene as the firemen arrived and he dyed his hair and discarded the clothing he was wearing, " Executive Director of Chicago Police Memorial Foundation Art Hannus said.

Officers say Slate eventually admitted to setting a mattress on fire in the basement.

Altman was a fourth-generation firefighter. His wife welcomed their second baby, the day before Altman's funeral was supposed to take place .

"If he wouldn't have done that, we wouldn't be standing here talking about him in past tense. So, I am angry, in a way," Nance-Holt said.

Slate has since been charged with first-degree murder and aggravated arson. He is detained while he waits for trial.

SEE ALSO | Questions raised about CPD response night before arson, death of CFD firefighter in Rogers Park