Sister-In-Law Of Fallen Chicago Firefighter Sets Up GoFundMe

CHICAGO — With his funeral set for Monday, the sister-in-law of fallen Chicago firefighter Andrew "Drew" Price is raising money to support his family, while also contributing to an investigation and safety initiatives following the tragic fire that claimed his life earlier this week. Price was 39 when he died in a fire Monday morning in the Lincoln Park neighborhood.

Vanessa Mohr, sister of Price's widow, Lara, has set a goal of $25,000 for the GoFundMe, which was started Thursday. As of Thursday afternoon, the campaign has already raised just under $11,000.

"Drew was loved by so many. He was a devoted husband, son, brother, uncle and friend. Drew embodied living a 'just chill' life, always encouraging others to appreciate the little things," Mohr said on the campaign's homepage. "He taught us to love harder, act kinder, and search for joy in every moment."

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 family lived in the Kilbourn Park neighborhood in Chicago's Northwest Side. He was set to turn 40 in January.

"The aftermath of this incident has taken a toll on the well-being of our firefighters and has also cast a shadow of financial uncertainty for my sister, Lara Price," Mohr said. "Your support can make a significant difference in helping them navigate these difficult times. We believe in transparency and accountability, and we want to ensure that such incidents are thoroughly examined to prevent them from happening again in the future."

Funeral arrangements for Price were announced Thursday. The Chicago Fire Department said in a social media post, services will be held Monday at the Navy Pier Grand Ballroom. The service will be televised.

The CFD said interment is private. Drake & Son Funeral Home, 5303 N. Western Ave., is handling arrangements. An obituary for Price was posted to the funeral home's website Thursday afternoon.

"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," Mohr said. "Thank you for your generosity and commitment to the safety and well-being of our local heroes."

To learn more about the GoFundMe and make a contribution, visit here.

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