Charges Filed in Connection with Chicago Firefighter’s Death: Arson, Fraud

Three men arrested following fatal fire incident involving Chicago firefighter Jermaine Pelt

Photo byValtteri LaukkanenonUnsplash

CHICAGO—Recent developments have led to the arrest of three individuals linked to the tragic death of Chicago Firefighter Jermaine Pelt, who lost his life while responding to a house fire in April 2023. The Chicago Police Department announced that Martez Cristler, 22, of Hammond, Indiana, and Nicholas Virgil, 37, of Riverdale, Illinois, have been charged with multiple counts including murder and aggravated arson. Additionally, Anthony Moore, 47, of Blue Island, Illinois, faces charges related to financial crimes, specifically wire fraud, forgery, and insurance fraud.

The arrests followed an investigation that identified Cristler and Virgil as the suspects responsible for setting the fire that led to Pelt’s death. The fire, which began around 3:40 a.m. on April 4, 2023, at a residence located at 12017 S. Wallace Street, quickly spread to two adjacent homes. Pelt, who was stationed at a neighboring property, 12019 S. Wallace Street, was operating a hose line when conditions deteriorated, leading to an evacuation order. Despite the order, Pelt was found incapacitated near the hose line by his lieutenant. He was subsequently transported to the hospital, where he died from carbon monoxide toxicity caused by smoke inhalation.

Pelt, who had recently turned 49, was a respected 18-year veteran of the Chicago Fire Department. He is survived by his wife, children, and extended family. His daughter Jorie had recently been married, and he leaves behind a six-year-old son, Jared. In addition to his career in firefighting, Pelt was involved in boxing and real estate, with a noted interest in travel.

The court proceedings for Cristler, Virgil, and Moore are scheduled to begin on Friday,