Chicago Rideshare Driver and Passenger Sickened by Hazardous Package

Incident prompts hazardous materials response in Logan Square neighborhood

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A rideshare driver and their passenger were sickened after coming into contact with a suspicious package while driving in Chicago's Logan Square neighborhood on Monday night. Emergency responders were called to the scene and the package was recovered from the vehicle, though the specific substance that made the two individuals ill was not disclosed.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the potential risks rideshare drivers and passengers can face when handling unknown packages or substances, raising concerns about public safety and the need for proper training and protocols to handle hazardous materials.

The details

According to police, the driver and passenger began feeling unwell after picking up a package in the 3600 block of West Palmer Street. They called 911 around 9:55 p.m. in the 2200 block of North Monticello Avenue. The fire department's hazmat team responded and recovered the package from the vehicle, but did not provide further details on the 'substance' that made the two individuals ill. The driver and passenger were taken to a local hospital in fair condition.

  • The incident occurred around 9:55 p.m. on Monday, February 10, 2026.

The players

Chicago Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the 911 call and is investigating the incident.

Chicago Fire Department

The local fire department that dispatched its hazardous materials team to the scene to recover the suspicious package.

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What they’re saying

“There was no further information on the 'substance', which made them ill.”

— Larry Merritt, Fire Department Spokesperson

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for rideshare companies and local authorities to have clear protocols in place to handle potentially hazardous situations, in order to protect both drivers and passengers and ensure public safety.