The Chicago Fire fall finale closed its doors with flames, panic, and a terrifying cliffhanger that has fans counting the days until the season fourteen winter premiere. With Severide, Van Meter, and a school principal trapped inside a burning apartment building, viewers are preparing for the possibility that one familiar face may not make it out alive.

Fire Breaks Out With No Way Out

The finale ended as an unknown figure set the building’s lobby ablaze while Severide and Van Meter were inside investigating. Flames climbed the exterior of the structure and smoke poured into the halls as the alarms sounded.

When the winter premiere promo dropped, fans saw the dangerously narrow options inside the apartment. Severide opened the door only to find fire blocking every exit. The building had no fire escape, leaving the trio with one desperate plan. Severide began tying sheets together, anchoring them to the bed frame to create a rope for a possible climb to safety.

The principal went out the window first, exactly as devoted firefighters would insist. But this act of courage set up the reason fans are now fearing a major loss.

Why Van Meter Is In Serious Danger

There is almost no chance that Chicago Fire will kill off Severide. He remains one of the most essential figures on the show, with major storylines still unfolding. Van Meter, however, is another story.

In the promo, Van Meter is seen crouching low as smoke fills the room. Just before the screen fades out, an explosion bursts through the door behind him. It raises the chilling possibility that Van Meter might stay behind to secure the rope and ensure Severide makes it out alive.

This selfless move would fit their relationship perfectly. Van Meter has served as a guide and mentor to Severide, especially throughout season fourteen. The writers have also positioned him more firmly within Severide’s personal and professional life, a choice that often signals a character is being prepared for a dramatic exit.

The Emotional Impact of a Loss

Losing Van Meter would deliver a devastating blow to Severide. It would also give the show a meaningful death without sacrificing a current series regular. Chicago Fire has not had a significant character death in some time, and the stakes have been steadily rising this season.

With Severide under new pressures, Pascal’s influence growing, and Firehouse 51 facing outside threats, a loss like Van Meter could shift the emotional tone of the series as 2026 begins.

The Countdown Begins

There is no confirmation that a death is coming, but the signs point toward a heartbreaking twist in the winter premiere. The tension is rising, the fire is spreading, and the escape plan is not guaranteed to save everyone.

Fans should brace themselves. Someone may not be climbing out that window.