A Love Cut Short
Chief Dom Pascal’s life changed forever in Chicago Fire Season 13. His wife, Monica Pascal (played by KaDee Strickland), died in one of the show’s most heartbreaking storylines, an event that would shape his character throughout Seasons 13 and 14.
In the episode “Too Close,” Pascal and Monica had just overcome months of marital strain and were looking forward to celebrating their 15th wedding anniversary. For the first time in a long while, it seemed like they were finding their rhythm again—until tragedy struck.
The Accident That Took Monica’s Life
While Pascal waited for Monica at a restaurant to mark their anniversary, Firehouse 51 responded to a major car accident elsewhere in the city. The crash, caused by malfunctioning traffic lights, was brutal and required heavy rescue intervention.
As Mouch (Christian Stolte) and the team used the jaws of life to free one of the trapped drivers, they were stunned to recognize the woman behind the wheel—it was Monica Pascal.
“This is the Chief’s wife in here,” Mouch whispered, horrified.
Monica was rushed to Chicago Med, but despite the team’s efforts, she succumbed to her injuries. Pascal, waiting anxiously for his wife’s call, answered the phone thinking she was on her way—only to hear Mouch’s trembling voice telling him to come to the hospital immediately. By the time Pascal arrived, it was too late.
Firehouse 51 Rallies Around Their Chief
Monica’s death shattered not only Pascal but the entire 51 family. Though devastated, Pascal returned to duty almost immediately, burying his grief in work. He arranged a private, family-only funeral for Monica, determined to keep the moment intimate.
When he hesitated at the doors of the funeral home, he was moved to find every member of Firehouse 51 waiting outside. They had come to support their Chief, showing him that even in unbearable loss, he wasn’t alone.
That moment quietly solidified Pascal’s bond with the team—and his place within the Chicago Fire family.
Moving Forward in Season 14
Season 14 picks up months later, in the episode “In the Blood.” Viewers witness Pascal’s quiet act of taking off his wedding ring for the first time—a symbolic, heart-wrenching gesture marking his attempt to move forward.
But letting go hasn’t been easy. When Pascal meets Annette Davis (Annabeth Gish), the Mayor’s chief of staff, sparks of a potential connection appear. Yet when Annette invites him for a drink, Pascal instinctively says he’s married—then falters, realizing the truth.
He later stares down at his now ring-less hand, visibly shaken, caught between grief and the first flicker of life beyond it. It’s a deeply human moment that reminds viewers how love and loss linger long after tragedy.
A Turning Point for Chief Pascal
Monica’s death continues to shape Pascal’s storylines, influencing both his leadership and his personal journey. While grief once fueled his guardedness, it has also deepened his empathy for the firefighters under his command—especially those who’ve faced their own loss.
Taking off his wedding ring wasn’t about forgetting Monica; it was about learning to live again after losing everything. And for a man like Dom Pascal, that small, silent act may be the bravest thing he’s ever done.
