Pritzker Orders IL Flags Flown At Half-Staff For Fallen Firefighter

CHICAGO — Gov. J.B. Pritzker has ordered all flags in Illinois be flown at half-staff Friday in honor of Chicago firefighter Andrew "Drew" Price, who died in the line of duty earlier this week. A funeral for Price, 39, who lost his life fighting a fire in Lincoln Park, is planned for Monday.

"Whereas, a valiant and passionate public servant, Firefighter/EMT Price's dedication to his community was unparalleled, having served with the Chicago Fire Department for more than 13 years," a proclamation regarding the flags reads.

The flag order runs through sundown Monday, hours after a funeral service for Price is planned at the Navy Pier Grand Ballroom.

According to the proclamation, Price is survived by his wife, Lara Price; mother, Rochelle Rice; parents-in-law, Karen Radez and Timothy Radez; siblings, Courtney Reynolds, Carissa Weber, Jordan Price and Natalie Price; "as well as many other family members and friends."

Meanwhile, a GoFundMe started by Price's sister-in-law, has raised over $40,000 in one day. The original financial goal of the campaign was $25,000, but was raised to $35,000. The campaign is raising money to support his family, while also contributing to an investigation and safety initiatives regarding the tragic fire.

"Join us in standing with our family and firefighters during this challenging time. Let's show them that their sacrifices do not go unnoticed, and we are here to support them as a united community," said Vanessa Mohr, Lara Price's sister, in the GoFundMe. "Thank you for your generosity and commitment to the safety and well-being of our local heroes."

Price was among 150 firefighters on the scene of the Monday morning blaze in the four-story building that houses the Lincoln Station bar and restaurant on the first floor. According to CFD Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt, Price was on the roof of the mixed-use building "opening holes" when he fell through a light shaft. She said firefighters had to open up a wall where he was trapped to bring him out.

Price was taken to Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center in critical condition following the fire and eventually died from his "significant injuries."

Price was a member of Engine 55, Truck 44 (Halstead Street and Diversey Avenue). He joined the Chicago Fire Department in 2009. Price and his wife lived in the Kilbourn Park neighborhood in Chicago's Northwest Side. He was set to turn 40 in January.

Price is the fourth Chicago firefighter to die in the line of duty this year, following Kevin Ward in August, and Jeremy Pelt and Jan Tchoryk in April. Pelt and Tchoryk died on consecutive days in separate fires.

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