by Chicago, Illinois – A horrifying attack on a Chicago L train has left 26-year-old Bethany MaGee fighting for her life after she was set on fire by a repeat offender with a decades-long criminal record. The suspect, 50-year-old Lawrence Reed, faces federal terrorism charges following the brazen assault.
Attack on the CTA Train
The incident occurred around 9 p.m. on November 17, downtown Chicago, when Reed approached MaGee while she sat with her back to him. According to a criminal complaint, Reed poured a flammable liquid over MaGee and then ignited it, engulfing her in flames. Despite her severe injuries, MaGee managed to escape the train and collapse on the platform, where good Samaritans intervened, and she was rushed to a hospital in critical condition.
Surveillance footage reportedly shows Reed purchasing gasoline at a Chicago gas station roughly 20 minutes prior to the attack. Authorities revealed that he had 22 arrests since 2016 and a total of 53 criminal cases in Cook County dating back to 1993, including nine felony convictions.
Prior Criminal History
Despite his extensive record, Reed had only served a cumulative 2.5 years in prison. Most recently, he had been released in August with an electronic ankle monitor after assaulting a social worker at a psychiatric facility, leaving her with likely optic nerve damage and a concussion. Prosecutors had requested that Reed remain in custody due to his ongoing danger to the public, but a judge initially released him, giving him free rein in the week leading up to the attack.
Federal Charges and Court Proceedings
Following his arrest, Reed was charged with federal terrorism offenses, which carry a potential death penalty if convicted. The US Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Andrew Boutros, emphasized that federal intervention was necessary because the state court system had repeatedly failed to contain Reed’s violent tendencies.
During his initial court appearance, Reed caused multiple disruptions, reportedly singing, babbling, and shouting, including repeatedly claiming he was a Chinese citizen and demanding to represent himself. ATF Special Agent-in-Charge Christopher Amon stated, “Reed had plenty of second chances by the criminal justice system and as a result you have an innocent victim in the hospital fighting for her life.”
Public Reaction and Safety Concerns
Chicago officials and residents have expressed outrage over the incident, highlighting the city’s policies that allow repeat offenders to roam free. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy condemned the attack, noting that no one should fear for their life on public transit.
The case has drawn stark comparisons to the September murder of 23-year-old Iryna Zarutska on a Blue Line train in Charlotte, North Carolina. Zarutska was killed by Decarlos Brown Jr., 34, a diagnosed schizophrenic who had been released on a cashless bail despite a 20-year history of violent behavior and mental illness.
Next Steps
MaGee remains hospitalized as she recovers from severe burns. Reed is currently detained at the Chicago Metropolitan Correctional Center, and authorities continue to investigate. Prosecutors are pushing for Reed to remain in federal custody as the case progresses.
This attack has reignited debate over public safety, criminal justice policies, and the treatment of repeat offenders in Chicago and nationwide.
Have thoughts on public safety or criminal justice reform? Share your comments below and join the conversation about protecting commuters and preventing future tragedies.
