Chicago Man Charged with Terrorism for Setting Woman on Fire on CTA Blue Line Train
A man in Chicago with a lengthy criminal record is now facing a federal terrorism charge for allegedly setting a woman on fire in a random attack on a CTA Blue Line train. Lawrence Reed, 50, is accused of pouring gasoline on the victim and igniting it as the train approached a station in the Loop. The victim suffered severe burns and remains hospitalized in critical condition. Reed was arrested and is now in federal custody, where he made statements indicating guilt and refused legal representation. He has a history of arrests and convictions, including for assault and arson. The attack has sparked national attention and calls for increased transit safety measures.
The incident occurred on Monday night as the northbound Blue Line train neared the Clark and Lake station. Reed allegedly approached the victim from behind, poured gasoline on her, and set her on fire. Surveillance footage captured the horrific attack, showing the victim engulfed in flames as she tried to escape. Two passengers on the platform helped extinguish the fire once the train doors opened. Reed was arrested the following day and is now facing federal charges for the attack.
Lawrence Reed has a history of criminal behavior, with numerous arrests and convictions dating back to the mid-1990s. He has been involved in multiple violent incidents, including assault and arson. Despite previous run-ins with the law, Reed was out on pretrial release at the time of the attack. The victim, a 26-year-old woman, suffered severe burns to her face and body and remains in critical condition. The attack has raised concerns about public safety and the need for increased security measures on public transportation.
The brutal attack on the CTA Blue Line train has shocked the community and drawn national attention. Lawrence Reed's criminal history and the violent nature of the attack have raised questions about public safety and the need for stricter enforcement of laws. The victim's family has requested privacy, and authorities are continuing to investigate the incident. The terrorism charge against Reed underscores the severity of the attack and the potential consequences he may face if convicted. The victim's condition remains critical, and the community is rallying around her in support.