In a disturbing incident Monday night, a woman riding the CTA Blue Line in Chicago’s Loop was set aflame during an onboard dispute. Law enforcement says the 26-year-old victim got into a heated argument with a 45-year-old man around 9:25 p.m. near the Clark/Lake station, at which point the suspect reportedly poured a flammable liquid onto her and ignited it. She collapsed on the platform and remains in critical condition as the investigation continues.
Altercation turns into arson on train
According to police, the confrontation began inside the Blue Line car as it approached the 100 block of West Lake Street. Officers say the argument between the two escalated, leading the man to uncork a liquid and set the woman ablaze. Responders said she jumped from the train at the Clark/Lake station and collapsed on the platform where bystanders assisted. Authorities confirm she sustained severe burns and was transported to Stroger Hospital in critical condition.
Suspect at large; arson investigation underway
The suspect has not yet been apprehended, and the incident is being treated as an act of arson by the Chicago Police Department’s arson unit. No connection between the two individuals has been publicly disclosed, and investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from the train and station. Blue Line service in the downtown Loop area was briefly disrupted during the response.
Transit safety concerns raised
The shocking nature of the attack has stirred fresh concerns about passenger safety aboard public transit in Chicago. Officials say they will review security measures on the Blue Line and in the Loop to address how an incendiary act could occur publicly and go unchecked initially. Riders are being encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious behaviour.
