Chicago Train Horror: Woman Set on Fire by Repeat Offender
A shocking incident on Chicago's public transportation system has exposed glaring gaps in the American criminal justice system. Lawrence Reed, a 50-year-old serial offender with 72 prior arrests, has been charged with committing a terrorist attack after allegedly setting a 26-year-old woman on fire aboard a CTA Blue Line train.
The Brutal Attack That Shocked Chicago
The horrific incident occurred on Monday evening when Reed, sitting at the back of a train car, approached the young woman as she sat with her back to him. According to federal investigators, he poured gasoline from a plastic beverage bottle over her and then chased her through the train car before setting her ablaze.
Surveillance footage from the train showed the victim fighting off Reed as he tried to ignite the gasoline. The terrified woman ran from one end of the car to the other while Reed pursued her relentlessly. The attacker then ignited the bottle and set the woman on fire, causing severe injuries that left her fighting for her life in hospital.
A Serial Offender's Long Criminal History
What makes this case particularly disturbing is Reed's extensive criminal background. Court records reveal that Reed had been arrested 72 times in Cook County alone, with convictions in 15 cases. Despite this alarming record, he had never served significant prison time and was only given probation for previous offenses.
At the time of the train attack, Reed was out on pretrial release for an aggravated battery charge. Federal officials expressed frustration that such a repeat offender was free to roam the streets. ATF Special Agent-in-Charge Christopher Amon stated, "Lawrence Reed had no business being on the streets given his violent criminal history and his pending criminal cases."
During his arrest on Tuesday morning, Reed made incriminating statements about the attack and was wearing the same clothes seen in surveillance footage. He also had burns on his right hand, further connecting him to the crime. When taken into custody, he allegedly shouted "burn alive b--h" at authorities.
Court Drama and Public Outrage
Reed's court appearances have been as dramatic as the crime itself. During his first federal court appearance on Wednesday, he was disruptive, yelling over the judge that he wanted to represent himself and claiming he was a Chinese citizen. He repeatedly shouted "I plead guilty!" as the judge tried to advise him of his rights.
On Friday, a judge ordered Reed to remain behind bars during his detention hearing. He now faces federal charges that carry a maximum penalty of life in prison.
The case has sparked national debate about criminal justice reforms. Tesla CEO Elon Musk commented on the situation, stating, "It is incredibly cruel of so many judges to push murderous thugs on the innocent public! And double shame on anyone who funds them to do so."
Other public figures have echoed similar sentiments, questioning why a person with such an extensive criminal history was allowed to remain free. The victim, identified as 26-year-old Bethany MaGee, continues to receive medical treatment for her severe burns as the community demands accountability from the justice system.
