Suspect in Custody in Orange Line Train Robbery

Police released a number of surveillance photos of two suspected robbers

A possible offender is in custody in connection to the rush hour robbery of multiple Orange Line passengers last week, according to police.

The robbery happened on the train at 4:13 p.m. last Wednesday as it traveled between the Halsted and Roosevelt stations, police News Affairs Officer Veejay Zala said.

Police released a number of surveillance photos of the two armed men, who officials and witnesses say took various items from five riders and pistol-whipped one who refused.

"It's kind of scary that after a week police only got one guy," said passenger Rick Urso. "Another one is still out there and could possibly do it again."

Passenger Romelia Garcia told NBC 5 that she was the only one of about 20 passengers in the train car to fight back. She suffered a bruise on her forehead where one of the men hit her with a gun and other assorted bruises but she refused to give up her purse.

Authorities learned about the robbery after one of the riders who was robbed alerted CTA personnel at the Roosevelt station, CTA spokeswoman Catherine Hosinski said.

"Now I don't carry nothing but [my baby's] pampers," said passenger Rita Wren. "Nothing in my purse."

Police were also reviewing surveillance video in the case, Zala said.

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