Woman set on fire during CTA train argument in the Loop, person of interest in custody

CHICAGO - A person of interest is in custody after a 26-year-old woman was critically injured Monday night when she was set on fire during an argument on a CTA train in the Loop.

What we know:

The woman was riding the train near the Clark/Lake station around 9:25 p.m. when she began arguing with a man believed to be about 45 years old, according to police. The confrontation escalated when the man poured an unknown liquid on her and ignited it, setting her on fire.

The train stopped and the suspect ran off, police said. The woman exited the train and collapsed on the platform, where the flames were extinguished before officers arrived. 

She suffered severe burns to her body and was taken to Stroger Hospital in critical condition, officials said.

What they're saying:

The attack sparked outrage among riders and community advocates who say violence on the CTA has become increasingly alarming.

"It was concerning. I take public transit to work, but concerning to think somebody had lighter fluid on them to douse and light them on fire," Alex Butler, a frequent train rider, said. 

"Just seeing her lying on the ground and she was kind of hyperventilating and in a lot of pain. You could tell she was in really bad shape. All the medics were down there and there was a big turnout as far as responders and so forth," one witness said.

What's next:

Chicago community activist Patrick Gibbons announced he is offering a $10,000 reward for credible information leading to an arrest and conviction in the case.

In a statement, Gibbons called the attack "an evil act that has shaken our city’s trust in the safety of public transit" and urged the city to take stronger action.

Gibbons is calling for three major changes: more uniformed security officers inside train cars, the creation of a dedicated CTA police force and long-term investment in transit safety.

Chicago police arson detectives are still investigating.