A disturbing incident unfolded on a Chicago Transit Authority train Monday night when a woman was horrifically set ablaze following a confrontation. The Chicago Police Department reported that the victim, a 26-year-old woman, became embroiled in an argument with a 45-year-old man during the ride.

According to the police, the disagreement escalated into violence at around 9:25 p.m. The male suspect allegedly doused the woman with a liquid and set her on fire, causing her severe injuries. The shocking act of violence left bystanders stunned as the train continued its journey.

The suspect took advantage of the chaos and managed to flee the scene when the train reached its next stop. However, the police are actively investigating the incident, and by Monday afternoon, they had identified and detained a person of interest in connection with the attack.

This unsettling event highlights the need for heightened security measures on public transport to protect passengers from such violent acts. As the investigation continues, the community remains on edge, hoping for justice for the victim and reassurance of safety on their daily commutes.

A Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) train. (FOX 32 Chicago)

The woman got off the train and fell to the ground. The fire was extinguished before first responders arrived. 

A Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) train arrives at a station. A woman was set on fire Monday aboard a CTA train, police said.  (Getty Images)

The victim sustained severe burns to her body and was taken to a hospital in critical condition. 

“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 told Fox Chicago. 

The Chicago Transit Authority condemned the shooting in a statement Monday. (iStock)

The incident is still under investigation.