CHICAGO — A man has been charged with murder in connection with a fire that claimed the life of a Chicago Fire Department captain. Charles Green, 44, faced a Cook County judge Saturday after authorities alleged he set a trash bin ablaze, triggering a garage fire that led to the tragic collapse killing Captain David Meyer.
Investigators assert that Green ignited the trash fire in the Austin neighborhood on Wednesday morning, resulting in the garage’s collapse shortly thereafter. Firefighters responded to the blaze at approximately 4 a.m. and, despite their efforts, were unable to prevent the structure from collapsing on Captain Meyer, who later succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital.
In court, prosecutors described Green as a convicted felon, emphasizing his potential threat to the community. The judge ordered that he remain in custody as the investigation unfolds. Chicago firefighters, including members of the department’s union, packed the courtroom to show solidarity with Captain Meyer’s family during the hearing.
Authorities charged Green with two counts of murder and one count of aggravated arson. During the court proceedings, evidence surfaced that included video footage showing him entering an alley near where the fire started shortly before the incident. Security cameras captured him near the trash bins just moments before flames erupted.
Meyer was not only a dedicated firefighter but also a family man, and his widow attended the court session, leaving without commenting to the media. Patrick Cleary, president of the Chicago firefighters union, conveyed the depth of the loss felt by Meyer’s family, remarking on the devastating impact of the tragedy.
Illinois lawmaker Alderman Ray Lopez and state Comptroller Susana Mendoza were also present in court to demonstrate support for the Meyer family. Alderman Lopez underscored the broader consequences of the judicial proceedings, highlighting the fire’s impact on the community at large.
Following Green’s arrest, police recovered items connected to the alleged crime, including lighters and clothing that preliminary tests indicated may have been used to start the fire. Despite the evidence, Green maintains his innocence, with witnesses alleging recognition of him from the surveillance footage.
Court records indicate Green has a lengthy criminal history, featuring five prior convictions since the 1990s and an existing warrant for an unrelated theft. He is scheduled to return to court next week, coinciding with the memorial services for Captain Meyer.
Public visitation for Captain Meyer is set for Monday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Malec and Sons Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service the next day at Saint John Brebeuf Church in Niles, where friends and family will gather to say their final farewells.