Derailment blocks Chicago metro

At least 120 were treated for minor injuries

Hundreds of rush-hour commuters were evacuated from Chicago's metro system after a train derailed, causing a fire.

A spokesman for the city's transit authority said hundreds had been led to safety through an emergency hatch and a section of the subway had been closed.

There were no serious injuries, but at least 120 people were taken to hospital and treated for smoke inhalation.

Service was suspended on one subway line after the incident during the evening rush hour.

The rear wheels of an eight-carriage train came off the track about 1710 (2210GMT) on Tuesday.

A brake fire could have been responsible for the thick smoke while filled the tunnel, a fire department spokesman said.

Officials said there was no indication of foul play.

The incident happened when a northbound Blue Line train derailed in the subway between Clark/Lake and Grand stations, and service was suspended in both directions from Damen to LaSalle, the Chicago Transit Authority said.

A single line service resumed late on Tuesday night, the CTA said.