Chief Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney) has always been a complex figure, a “riddle wrapped in mystery,” yet there’s one person he always opens up to: his wife, Monica Pascal (KaDee Strickland).
Throughout Season 13, the Pascals have faced their share of challenges. One of the reasons Pascal accepted his post at Firehouse 51 was to be closer to Monica, who had left their Miami life behind after nearly ending their marriage. Fans have watched as the couple slowly rebuilt their relationship, striving toward happier days.
Tragedy Strikes on Their 15th Anniversary
The season took a devastating turn in Episode 15, “Too Close”. As their 15th anniversary approached, Pascal struggled to find the perfect gift for Monica.
“This present has to be a winner after the year we’ve had,” Pascal mused.
Meanwhile, Monica stopped by the firehouse, sharing a moment with Mouch before joining Pascal in his office. She revealed she had uninvited her sister from the anniversary dinner so the evening would be just the two of them.
“Friday is now just about us and 15 years on the rollercoaster,” Monica said, cuddling up to Pascal.
“The highs are pretty damn high,” Pascal teased.
“And the lows—” Monica began, only for Pascal to cut in with a kiss.
The big night was set, but Pascal hadn’t found a gift worthy of the occasion—until Mouch suggested borrowing Monica’s sister’s watch, giving Pascal the perfect idea.
The Heartbreaking Twist
Later that evening, a major traffic accident occurred at an intersection with all four lights out. Firehouse 51 rushed to the scene. Amidst the chaos, paramedic Violet Mikami (Hanako Greensmith) and the firefighters discovered an unconscious woman trapped in one of the vehicles.
“This is the Chief’s wife in here,” Mouch revealed.
Rushed to Chicago Med, Monica fought for her life as Pascal waited anxiously at the restaurant. When he finally arrived, he was met with the unthinkable:
“I’m so sorry, Dom,” Dr. Dean Archer (Steven Weber) said.
Monica had flatlined. Pascal collapsed beside her, clutching her hand as tears fell, surrounded by the stunned faces of Firehouse 51.
The episode left fans reeling, cementing Monica’s death as one of the most gut-wrenching moments in Chicago Fire history. Pascal’s loss and the raw emotions at Firehouse 51 will undoubtedly reverberate through the rest of the season.
