A tragic incident unfolded in Chicago on Monday morning as 39-year-old firefighter Andrew "Drew" Price lost his life while bravely battling an extra-alarm fire in Lincoln Park. The Chicago Fire Department confirmed the devastating news, which has left the entire department and the city in mourning.

According to officials, Price was performing ventilation work on the roof of a four-story building located in the 2400 block of North Lincoln Avenue. Tragically, he fell through a skylight, known as a light shaft, and landed in the basement of the building. Despite the efforts of his fellow firefighters and the emergency room doctors at Advocate Illinois Masonic Hospital, Price succumbed to his significant injuries.

Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt of the Chicago Fire Department expressed her grief during a news conference, highlighting Price's dedication and commitment to his role. She mentioned how Price, known as a health-conscious individual and beloved by many, will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Price had been a member of the department since 2009 and was assigned to Engine 55 and Truck 44.

Upon discovering Price in the building, fellow firefighters immediately worked to rescue him. A hole was made in a wall to bring him out, and despite his initial responsiveness, his injuries proved to be fatal. Thankfully, no other individuals were harmed in the incident.

The fire, which was reported shortly before 6 a.m., is believed to have originated in a kitchen in the building. The Office of Fire Investigation is currently examining the cause, with foul play currently not suspected. It is noteworthy that the building had passed an inspection on October 31, though the inspection covered only the commercial portion on the first floor. Residential inspections fall under the jurisdiction of the city.

Price's battalion chief, Michael McCormack, described him as a kind-hearted individual who took excellent care of himself and his family. McCormack emphasized Price's dedication to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and referred to him as a ray of sunshine.

Andrew Price's passing marks the fourth Chicago Fire Department member to lose their life in the line of duty this year. Despite the risks they face, Nance-Holt reiterated the commitment and love each firefighter has for their job, acknowledging the shared grief among fellow members of the department.

Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his condolences, acknowledging Price's sacrifice in protecting the safety and well-being of the community. The mayor's statement recognized the debt owed to Price, one that can never fully be repaid.

Meanwhile, displaced residents of the building, many of whom are DePaul University students, shared their experiences of waking up to black smoke filling the hallways. Sean Graney, a Northwestern University master's student residing in the building, described the chaotic nature of the evacuation, emphasizing the smoke-filled environment that made it challenging for individuals to navigate their way to safety.

As investigations continue and the community mourns the loss of Andrew Price, the Chicago Fire Department and the city as a whole stand united in honoring his bravery and dedication to protecting the lives and properties of the residents they serve.