Idling train sends smoke, soot into high-rise vents

A smoky fire broke out in a downtown ventilation shaft near several high-rise buildings earlier Friday.

Firefighters responded to reports of heavy smoke on the 400-block of West Van Buren. Fire department officials say an idling train produced the smoke and soot which overwhelmed the vent shaft.

The smoke and fire were out by 11:30 a.m. No injuries were reported.