An off-duty Chicago firefighter drowned Sunday morning after swimming with his family in Lake Michigan at 31st Street Beach.
Chicago Fire Department officials confirmed that 43-year-old Wilbert Hayes died after being pulled out of Lake Michigan. Hayes had been with the CFD since 2009.
CFD is confirming the fallen member who drowned this morning while swimming with family is Engineer EMT Wilbert Hayes. 43 years old. Our investigation is ongoing. (Langford)
— Chicago Fire Media (@CFDMedia) July 31, 2023
“Crews quickly responded and located him underwater, but despite advanced care of our own paramedics and the medical team at the University of Chicago, he passed away,” said Fire Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt, in part, in a statement.
“While this incident did occur off duty after his shift, we are conducting a full investigation to determine the status of this tragic loss.”
In a social media post, LaToya Hayes, the victim’s wife, wrote, “Wilbert was an exceptional husband, father, son, big brother, uncle, nephew and friend. He was full of life and was passionate about his family & change in the community.”
“This is a devastating loss, and we ask that you keep our family in your thoughts and prayers.”
Mayor Brandon Johnson also issued a statement.
“The City of Chicago mourns the loss of Chicago Fire Department Engineer Wilbert Hayes of Engine 16. We are eternally grateful for his bravery and service, and my deepest sympathies go out to his family, loved ones, and colleagues. Let us keep Engine 16 and all of our city’s first responders in our prayers,” he said.
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