A life-threatening emergency, a hero in critical condition, and the surprise comeback of Chief Boden — Chicago Fire delivers one of its most intense episodes yet.
Chicago Fire fans were left breathless during the high-stakes April 16 episode, “Post Mortem,” as Firehouse 51 faced one of its most harrowing rescues to date — one that nearly cost firefighter Jack Damon (Michael Bradway) his life.
But the near-tragedy didn’t just shake the team. It also sparked the powerful return of a familiar face: Chief Wallace Boden (Eamonn Walker), now serving as Deputy Commissioner, stepped back into 51 with a mission — and it wasn’t just to reconnect with old friends. He was there to get answers.
💥 The Rescue That Went Wrong
The chaos unfolded during a house fire call that went sideways fast. After bravely entering the burning home to assist in the rescue, Damon was accidentally left behind in the attic during evacuation — a result of a miscount caused by his recent transfer to 51 and the return of firefighter Sam Carver (Jake Lockett).
As the flames intensified, Damon passed out from smoke inhalation. With his alarm blaring, it was Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) — Damon’s half-brother — who raced back in and pulled him out in a moment of pure adrenaline and brotherly instinct.
🏥 A Race Against Time
Damon was rushed to Chicago Med, clinging to life on life support. As the team held their breath, Chief Boden began a full-scale investigation to determine how such a devastating miscommunication happened under their watch.
The mood was tense, the guilt heavy. But finally, after hours of waiting, Damon regained consciousness — a moment of collective relief for Firehouse 51.
Still, the recovery wasn’t without complications. Damon’s lungs had sustained potential long-term damage, raising fears about his future as a firefighter.
“What if it’s bad, Kelly?” Damon asked, visibly emotional.
“Then we fight it,” Severide responded. “Together.”
🔙 The Return of Chief Boden
While Damon’s medical team worked to stabilize him, Deputy Commissioner Boden’s presence brought weight and clarity. Though no longer based at Firehouse 51, Boden returned in full command mode — reminding everyone why he remains the soul of the Chicago Fire universe.
His investigation wasn’t just about assigning blame — it was about understanding what went wrong so it never happens again. The reunion between Boden and his former team was poignant, showing the deep respect and emotional bonds that define this crew.
💔 Damon’s Road to Recovery
Though he survived the fire, Damon is far from in the clear. Doctors spotted signs of lung breakdown, and his long-term health remains uncertain. For a firefighter, lung damage could be career-ending — and Damon knows it.
The emotional toll is evident. Damon’s desire to prove himself — intensified by his family connection to Severide — collided with the very real dangers of the job. Now, he faces a new kind of battle: one for his future.
🎬 What’s Next?
With the return of Boden, the emotional aftermath of Damon’s injury, and a potentially life-altering prognosis looming, Chicago Fire is setting up for an explosive continuation. Will Damon heal? Will Boden’s investigation bring changes to 51? And how will this trauma reshape Severide and his bond with his brother?
There’s only one way to find out.
Catch all-new episodes of Chicago Fire Wednesdays at 9/8c on NBC, and stream the next day on Peacock.
🔥 Because in this firehouse, every second counts — and every hero has a story.
