Man in Custody After Sexually Assaulting Woman at Gunpoint on Blue Line Train
A man is currently in police custody following a disturbing incident on a Blue Line train in Chicago. According to a report from the Chicago Police Department, the man sexually assaulted a 57-year-old woman at gunpoint.
The incident took place near the Western station on Chicago’s Near West Side around 11:23 p.m. Thursday. Police responded to a call about a man with a gun attempting to rob people on the train. A witness led officers to a 30-year-old man on the platform who tried to hide upon seeing the police. The man was detained, and a firearm was recovered nearby.
The victim reported that the man forced her to perform a sexual act at gunpoint while they were on the train. She described how he brandished the gun, exposed himself, and then proceeded to assault her. The man then threatened her with violence if she did not comply with his demands.
Evidence technicians found a used condom, torn condom wrapper, and biological evidence on the victim’s clothing and the train’s floor and wall. The victim’s fiancé, who was also present on the train, corroborated her account.
During his arrest, the suspect reportedly assaulted two police officers. He kicked one officer in the chest and headbutted another while being transported from Mt. Sinai Hospital a few hours later.
The suspect has a history of criminal behavior, with court records showing an 11-year sentence for aggravated battery of a peace officer in 2019. Additionally, he faced attempted murder charges that were dropped the same year for allegedly firing shots at an occupied vehicle.
Charges have not yet been filed in this case, as detectives continue their investigation. The Chicago Police Department is actively working on this matter to bring justice to the victim.