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Hearing Delayed in Case of Firefighter Michael Altman's Death With Detention Ruling Due Monday

Prosecutors allege Sheaves Slate set a mattress after a dispute, with his hospital stay delaying the first court date.

Overview

  • Sheaves Slate, 27, did not appear Saturday because he was hospitalized, and a judge set a detention hearing for Monday to decide whether he remains in custody.
  • He is charged with two counts of murder, aggravated arson injuring a firefighter, and residential arson in the Rogers Park blaze that fatally injured Michael Altman, 32.
  • Prosecutors told the court that Slate was squatting in the building, argued with tenants, and intentionally set a mattress on fire.
  • Chicago firefighters filled the courtroom Saturday, and State Comptroller Susana Mendoza urged the public to attend Monday’s hearing in support of Altman’s family.
  • Police arrested Slate on Wednesday in the 800-block of West Irving Park Road, and news reports note prior or pending retail-theft and drug-related cases.