Off-Duty CFD Member Drowns in Lake Michigan

Local news outlets are reporting that 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.

“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.”

As of the writing of this article, no definitive reason for why Mr. Hayes would have drowned or been pulled under the water of Lake Michigan.