Metra trains back on the move, ‘suspicious’ package was empty suitcase
BY TINA SFONDELES Transportation Reporter tsfondeles@suntimes.com May 19, 2012 9:50AM
Updated: May 19, 2012 10:44AM
Metra trains are back on the go after an empty suitcase sparked an investigation at a Hyde Park station Saturday morning.
Trains were stopped from about 8:40 a.m. until 10 a.m.
The suspicious package was discovered at the 55-56-57th Street train station located at Lake Park Avenue, Metra spokesman Michael Gillis said.
Trains on the Metra Electric Line were stopped in both directions, while passengers at the station have been moved from one end of the platform to the other, for their safety, Gillis said.
Canine units were helping police at the scene, but the package was later deemed safe.
Metra says six trains -- three inbound and three outbound -- were affected by the investigation. The biggest delay was an hour.
Saturday is day one of increased security measures for all Metra riders, just a day before the NATO Summit begins at the McCormick Place.
The Metra Electric Line runs under the site.
