Burst Water Main Sets Off Sprinklers At Criminal Courthouse

CHICAGO (CBS) -- A frozen sprinkler head led to a big mess in the lobby of the Cook County Criminal Courthouse on Tuesday.

County spokesperson Kristen Mack said that an employee noticed the sprinkler head dripping shortly before closing time Tuesday. When a crew arrived to make repairs, though, they did not completely shut off the water supply to the system, and Mack said about a inch of water flooded the lobby before the shut off could be completed.

Sheriff's personnel escorted some people out a back door to the complex until the shutoff could be completed.

Chicago Fire Department personnel were able to remove much of the water in less than half an hour, and cleaning crews used squeegees to remove the rest.

Mack said damage to the building was minimal, and said it was expected to be open for business as usual on Wednesday, with no disruption to court calls.