In the early hours of Friday, a Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) passenger found himself the target of a robbery attempt that escalated to violence on the city’s West Side, according to reports from the Chicago police.

The incident unfolded around 2:30 a.m. in the South Austin neighborhood, specifically in the 300-block of North Central Avenue. Officers were dispatched to the scene following reports of the crime.

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A 37-year-old man recounted to the authorities that while riding a Green Line train, he was confronted by an assailant armed with a sharp object. The attacker demanded the man’s belongings, leading to a physical altercation.

During the struggle, the victim sustained a laceration to his arm. Despite the injury, he was able to reach West Suburban Hospital, where medical staff attended to him. He is currently reported to be in good condition.

As of now, the suspect remains unidentified and on the loose. The investigation is ongoing, with Area Four detectives actively working to gather more information.

There is no one in custody, and Area Four detectives are investigating.

The stabbing comes as the CTA is launching a new security program in partnership with police.

It is called the Transit Rider Interaction Program, or TRIP.

Police officers will line platforms and check in with train operators. Officers will then ride to other stations to do the same checks. The CTA hopes these new patrols will deter crime.

Police did not immediately provide further information about Friday morning’s stabbing.

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