CHICAGO, IL – A 26-year-old woman remained in critical condition Tuesday after being doused with gasoline and set ablaze during an attack aboard a Chicago Transit Authority Blue Line train, authorities said.
The horrific incident occurred around 9:25 p.m. Monday at the Clark/Lake subway station in Chicago’s Loop. A 45-year-old man poured gasoline on the woman during a quarrel, then ignited the accelerant, according to Chicago police.
The victim suffered severe burns covering more than half her body. Witnesses described seeing her running from the train car completely engulfed in flames before collapsing on the platform.
Passenger Christopher Flores witnessed the terrifying scene. “She was running off the train towards the middle of it, completely engulfed in fire,” Flores told reporters. He later observed the victim on the ground, saying “She’s on the ground crying. Burnt to a crisp.”
Emergency responders transported the woman to Stroger Hospital of Cook County, where she remained hospitalized in critical condition as of late Tuesday afternoon. Medical officials have not released details about her treatment or prognosis.
Chicago police took a 45-year-old man into custody following the attack. His identity has not been released, and authorities have not disclosed the nature of the quarrel that preceded the violence. An arson investigation is ongoing.
Blue Line rider Wyatt Wykoff described the aftermath at the station. “The Fire Department showed up and we smelt a strong burning smell,” he said.
The CTA released a statement saying it is “working closely with the Chicago Police Department” to support the investigation. The agency did not immediately comment on security measures at the station.
The attack comes amid rising concerns about safety on Chicago’s transit system. CBS Chicago’s analysis revealed more than 230 aggravated batteries have been reported on the CTA system this year, exceeding figures from the past decade. However, overall violent crime in Chicago has decreased compared to the previous year.
Authorities have not announced charges against the suspect. The investigation continues as the victim fights for her life.
