Fans of the hit firefighter drama Chicago Fire may soon notice a temporary change in leadership at Firehouse 51. Actor Dermot Mulroney, who portrays Chief Dom Pascal, is expected to step away from the series for a short period following events in season 14 episode 14.
The episode titled “Hit and Run” introduces a storyline that explains the character’s absence. Earlier reports in January suggested that Mulroney would take a hiatus from the show. While his character is leaving temporarily, the departure is not permanent and the actor is expected to return in the future, although the exact timing of his comeback has not been revealed yet.
During Mulroney’s break from the series, Rob Morgan will step in as Battalion Chief Hopkins, taking charge of Firehouse 51 and overseeing operations while Pascal is away.
What Happens to Chief Pascal in the Storyline
Chief Pascal’s situation unfolds during a crossover event involving Chicago Med and Chicago P.D., bringing together multiple first responder teams. The incident begins after a tragic event in which passengers aboard a commercial aircraft die following exposure to a dangerous nerve agent accidentally released by a drug courier.
Investigations eventually lead authorities to a suspect in Chicago named Thomas Marr. Pascal works alongside FBI agent Hailey Upton, portrayed by Tracy Spiridakos, and police leader Hank Voight, played by Jason Beghe, during a high-risk operation to apprehend the suspect.
When authorities reach Marr’s house, they discover the location has been rigged with explosives. A fire quickly breaks out, threatening to destroy important evidence. Despite being ordered to wait for further instructions, Pascal decides to enter the building in full firefighting gear in an attempt to recover the evidence before it is lost.
His decision to ignore orders leads to serious consequences. Pascal is arrested for obstruction of justice, setting the stage for his temporary departure from Firehouse 51.
Before being taken away, firefighter Mouch discovers a damaged router among Pascal’s gear and hands it to Voight so the investigation can continue without interference from federal authorities.
Showrunner Explains the Character’s Journey
According to showrunner Andrea Newman, the storyline represents an important turning point for Pascal. She explained that the character has struggled to build the same connection with Firehouse 51 that previous chiefs had, such as Wallace Boden.
The dramatic events push Pascal to make a major sacrifice for his team. As a result, he faces a crossroads in his career and must decide whether to fight his way back to Firehouse 51 or move toward a completely new path.
For now, viewers can expect Pascal’s absence to shape upcoming episodes while the story builds toward his eventual return.
