BREAKING: A shocking incident aboard a Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) train has left a 26-year-old woman hospitalized with severe burns after being set on fire by a man with a staggering 49 prior arrests, including 10 felonies. The suspect, Lawrence Reed, 50, was arrested on Tuesday and has now been charged with federal terrorism.
The brutal attack occurred on Monday, October 16, as the victim was simply sitting on the train, “minding her business,” according to U.S. Attorney Andrew S. Boutros. Reed allegedly approached her and poured gasoline before igniting the flames. Victims of this horrifying episode are left to grapple with the aftermath, as the woman suffers burns covering over 50 percent of her body.
Witnesses reported that despite the chaos, no one intervened until two Good Samaritans finally helped extinguish the fire after the woman managed to escape the train. Boutros described the scene with urgency, stating, “This young woman was on her phone… when Mr. Reed approached her.”
Reed’s extensive criminal history raises serious questions about public safety and judicial decisions. His previous arrests include serious charges, such as an incident in August 2023 where he allegedly knocked someone unconscious. Critics are now pointing to the judicial system that allowed Reed to remain free despite his alarming record.
Judge Teresa Molina-Gonzalez denied a prosecutor’s request to detain Reed after his 49th arrest, enabling him to commit another violent act. Many are now demanding accountability for judges who release repeat offenders into the community.
Onlookers and community members are expressing outrage, citing the disturbing pattern of violence in Chicago, particularly under the leadership of recent mayors. The sentiment is clear: the system failed to protect an innocent woman, and the repercussions are dire.
As law enforcement officials investigate further, Reed’s mental state remains a focal point. During his court appearance, he reportedly insisted on representing himself, repeatedly stating, “I plead guilty” but later questioned the terrorism charge, saying, “What is this all about?”
The victim’s condition is critical, and the community anxiously awaits updates on her recovery. This incident serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for reform in handling repeat offenders and ensuring public safety.
As this story develops, authorities urge anyone with additional information to come forward. The impact of this attack resonates far beyond the train, highlighting systemic issues that demand immediate attention.
Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent situation as we continue to follow the developments.
