The Shadow of Investigation: Which Firehouse 51 Members Could Face an Exit in Chicago Fire‘s “Post Mortem”?
The highly anticipated return of Deputy Commissioner Wallace Boden (Eamonn Walker) to Chicago Fire in the upcoming episode “Post Mortem” is shrouded in a sense of foreboding. Tasked with investigating a disastrous firefight that left one of their own in peril, Boden’s presence casts a long shadow over Firehouse 51. His mission to uncover the truth and determine responsibility could have severe consequences for the team, raising the very real possibility of one or more beloved characters potentially facing an exit from the show. Here are four Chicago Fire characters whose circumstances in Season 13 make them potential candidates for a departure in this pivotal episode.
1. The Firefighter Left Behind: A Tragic and Immediate Loss
The most immediate and heartbreaking possibility for a character exit in “Post Mortem” is the firefighter who was tragically left behind during the catastrophic blaze. The promo and synopsis for the episode heavily emphasize this loss and Boden’s investigation into the circumstances surrounding it.
While the identity of this firefighter remains unconfirmed, their fate is likely sealed. If the episode focuses on the aftermath and the investigation into what went wrong, the stark reality of this character’s death will undoubtedly be a central and emotionally impactful element. This tragic loss would not only deeply affect the remaining members of Firehouse 51 but also serve as the catalyst for Boden’s investigation and the potential repercussions that follow.
2. Chief Dom Pascal: Under Scrutiny and Potentially Unfit to Lead
The current Chief of Firehouse 51, Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney), finds himself directly under the microscope as Boden investigates the disastrous firefight that occurred under his command. Pascal has been navigating his leadership role while grappling with the recent tragic loss of his wife, a grief that has visibly impacted his decision-making and emotional stability.
Boden, a seasoned leader known for his unwavering judgment and commitment to safety protocols, will undoubtedly scrutinize Pascal’s actions and decisions leading up to and during the incident. If Boden’s investigation reveals significant errors in judgment, negligence, or a lapse in protocol on Pascal’s part, it could very well lead to his removal as Chief. This wouldn’t necessarily mean Pascal’s permanent departure from the show, but it would signify a major shift in the firehouse’s leadership and potentially his role within the team. Given the high stakes and the loss of a firefighter, Boden might deem a change in leadership necessary to ensure the safety and effectiveness of Firehouse 51.
3. A Member of Truck or Squad Involved in the Mishap: Facing Disciplinary Action
Boden’s investigation isn’t just about understanding what happened; it’s about determining who, if anyone, is responsible for the tragic outcome. If the investigation uncovers specific actions or inactions by a member of Truck 81 or Squad 3 that contributed to the firefighter being left behind, that individual could face severe disciplinary action.
Depending on the severity of the findings, this could range from suspension to outright dismissal from the Chicago Fire Department. The close-knit nature of Firehouse 51 would make such a scenario particularly devastating, forcing Boden to potentially punish someone he once considered part of his family. Characters like Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney), Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo), or even seasoned veterans like Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg) could find themselves under scrutiny if their actions during the firefight are called into question. While the departure of such core characters would be a major shock, the high stakes of “Post Mortem” suggest that no one is entirely safe.
4. A Character Seeking an Exit Due to the Trauma: The Emotional Toll
The intense and traumatic nature of being a firefighter often takes a significant emotional toll on the individuals who dedicate their lives to saving others. The events of the disastrous firefight and the subsequent investigation could serve as a breaking point for a character who has been silently struggling with the cumulative stress and trauma of their job.
Following such a devastating incident, a character might decide that they can no longer continue in such a high-pressure environment and choose to leave Firehouse 51 to pursue a different path or prioritize their mental well-being. This kind of departure would be driven by character development and the realistic portrayal of the emotional burdens faced by first responders. While it’s difficult to pinpoint which character might be most susceptible to this kind of decision, someone who has faced significant personal challenges or expressed doubts about their career in the past could be a potential candidate.
Conclusion: “Post Mortem” Promises High Stakes and Potential Heartbreak
The upcoming episode of Chicago Fire, “Post Mortem,” marks a significant and potentially transformative point in Season 13. Eamonn Walker’s return as Boden, while welcomed by fans, comes with the heavy weight of an investigation into a tragic loss within Firehouse 51. This sets the stage for potential heartbreak and significant changes to the team’s dynamic. While the exact identities of those who might be leaving remain a closely guarded secret, the circumstances surrounding the episode and the potential consequences of Boden’s findings suggest that the four characters outlined above face a heightened risk of departure. Fans should brace themselves for an emotionally charged episode that could reshape the landscape of Firehouse 51 and bid farewell to one or more familiar faces.
