Local
Freight theft near Western Avenue disrupts Metra BNSF service
A reported robbery of a freight train halted Metra’s BNSF line near Western Avenue on Tuesday morning, delaying trains in both directions. Metra said passengers were safe, and Chicago police were investigating.
Metra’s BNSF line experienced major delays Tuesday morning after a freight train was robbed near Western Avenue in Chicago, disrupting service for commuters traveling in both directions.
Trains were stopped shortly before 9 a.m. because of the incident and police activity, Metra said. The agency later reported that inbound and outbound trains were moving again, while warning that some would face extensive delays.
Metra said passengers were safe. The Chicago Police Department was investigating. Images from above the railyard showed opened packages and boxes scattered beside the tracks; authorities had not released details about what was taken or whether anyone had been arrested.
BNSF said it has security measures and works with police to prevent freight-related incidents. The railroad said cargo theft can disrupt shipments, raise costs for businesses and consumers, and put railroad workers, officers and nearby communities at risk. It noted that freight can include essentials such as medicine and food.