Central District police station evacuated after ‘minor explosion’ in computer room
A Chicago Fire Department hazardous materials crew responds to what police called a “minor explosion” at the Central District Chicago police station, 1718 S. State St., on Jan. 24, 2020. | Sam Kelly/Sun-Times
CHICAGO - An explosion in a computer room prompted an evacuation Friday at the Central District Chicago police station in the South Loop.
The “minor explosion” occurred about 3:10 a.m. on the second floor of the station, 1718 S. State St., according to Chicago police.
An “electrical issue” triggered a halon gas fire suppression system in the room, prompting a hazardous materials response, according to the Chicago Fire Department.
The building was evacuated of police personnel until the fire department ventilated the room, police said. Staff returned to the building a short time later.
The cause of the explosion was not immediately known, police said. No injuries were reported.