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Man in custody after trying to start fire on CTA train, causing delays

By Will Hager
Updated  March 24, 2026 11:32am CDT
Loop
FOX 32 Chicago

The Brief

    • CTA Blue Line service was briefly halted after a man tried to start a fire on a moving train near Jackson.
    • No injuries were reported, and the suspect is in custody with charges pending.

CHICAGO - Service on the CTA BLue Line was briefly shut down Tuesday morning after a rider tried to start a fire on a moving train in the Loop.

What we know:

Around 6 a.m., a 38-year-old man on a moving train tried to start a small fire with his personal belongings near the Jackson station, according to Chicago police. Police said no fire was started and no injuries were reported. 

Trains were temporarily stopped in both directions, prompting "significant" delays," according to the CTA.

The man was taken into custody. Police said charges are pending.

What you can do:

Head over to the CTA's website for the latest updates.

This story is developing.

The Source: The information in this report came from the CTA and the Chicago Police Department.

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