Perhaps the most worrying situation belongs to Randy “Mouch” McHolland. A fixture at Firehouse 51 since the early seasons, Mouch now finds himself in an unusually vulnerable position. With Engine 51 reportedly on a list of rigs facing permanent decommission, the consequences could extend far beyond equipment — directly threatening careers.
If Engine 51 is shut down, Mouch would effectively become a lieutenant without a rig to command. That scenario places his future within the CFD in serious doubt, especially as the show begins to explore the real-world impact of budget cuts. While previous departures this season stemmed from personal or story-driven choices, this would be the first time financial realities directly force a firefighter out.
Narratively, it would be a powerful statement. Mouch represents loyalty, longevity, and institutional memory at 51. Losing him wouldn’t just affect the firehouse — it would symbolize the erosion of stability within the department itself. If Chicago Fire wants to underline the gravity of the CFD crisis, Mouch’s job could become the most heartbreaking casualty yet.
