Overview
- Sheaves Slate, 27, was ordered detained pending trial at a Monday hearing in Cook County after prosecutors announced murder and aggravated arson charges.
- Felony review approved first-degree murder and aggravated arson counts in coordination with Chicago police, according to State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke.
- Prosecutors allege Slate set a basement mattress on fire following a quarrel, placed a door that contributed to a ceiling collapse and did not alert residents or call 911.
- Authorities say Slate was arrested Wednesday in the 800 block of West Irving Park Road after missing a prior court date due to hospitalization, and court records show prior arrests and retail theft supervision.
- Firefighter Michael Altman fell through a collapsed floor into the basement, suffered burns over most of his body and died the next day; visitation is Thursday and the funeral is Friday at St. Rita of Cascia, with Slate due back in court April 8.