Metra service back on BNSF line between Aurora and Chicago after freight train derailment, Lollapalooza riders shouldn’t be impacted

Metra service has been restored on the BNSF line that carries commuter trains between Aurora and Chicago after an early morning freight train derailment caused significant delays.

The disruption occurred at about 5:24 a.m. Friday when three cars derailed, impacting the main track near Aurora. The cause is still under investigation, BNSF officials said.

“There were no injuries to the crew and there is no threat to the public,” spokesman Kendall Sloan said.

“A team is working to clear the incident as quickly and as safely as possible and fully restore operations.” Out of three tracks, “main tracks one and two are back open,” he added.

The issue occurred with thousands of suburbanites relying on Metra trains to attend the four-day Lollapalooza festival, which runs through Sunday. Metra has added extra trains to its Union Pacific, Milwaukee District and BNSF lines to accommodate music fans.

As of late morning, Metra reported some residual delays could be expected but said Lollapalooza customers should not be impacted. The BNSF is Metra’s busiest route.

Transit officials suggested checking metratracker.com for updated train information.

The derailment occurred west of the Route 59 station in Aurora, officials said.

• Daily Herald Staff Writer Marni Pyke contributed to this report.