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Chicago Blue Line Attack: Bethany MaGee, 26, Set Ablaze; Suspect Held on Terrorism Charges

04:48 AM, 11/25/2025
Chicago Blue Line Attack: Bethany MaGee, 26, Set Ablaze; Suspect Held on Terrorism Charges

Bethany MaGee, 26, was identified as the woman doused with gasoline and set on fire aboard a Chicago Blue Line train on Nov. 17. Authorities arrested 50-year-old Lawrence Reed the following day; a federal complaint alleges he prepared the fuel shortly before boarding, then approached and ignited MaGee, who suffered severe burns. Reed—reportedly on electronic monitoring for a prior alleged assault—now faces federal terrorism charges and remains in custody. The attack has prompted renewed scrutiny of electronic monitoring and mental-health supervision.

Federal officials have identified the 26-year-old woman who was set on fire aboard a Chicago Blue Line train on Nov. 17 as Bethany MaGee. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed her identity and called for stronger public-safety measures.

Attack and arrest

Authorities say 50-year-old Lawrence Reed was arrested the day after the attack and is now charged in federal court with terrorism-related offenses. A federal criminal complaint alleges Reed purchased gasoline roughly 20 minutes before boarding the train, approached MaGee from behind, doused her with the fuel and ignited her. MaGee sustained severe burns over much of her body and collapsed on the platform at the Lake & Clark station, where bystanders provided aid.

Background and investigation

Officials say Reed was under court-ordered electronic monitoring at the time in connection with a separate alleged assault at a mental health facility. Reports indicate he has a lengthy criminal history, including multiple felony charges and prior arrests. The nature of the attack and Reed’s record have prompted criticism of the criminal justice and mental-health systems.

“This is an absolute failure of our criminal justice and mental health institutions,” Mayor Brandon Johnson said.

U.S. Attorney Andrew Boutros described surveillance footage of the assault as "difficult to watch, and very disturbing," noting MaGee tried to extinguish herself while other passengers reacted. At an initial court appearance, Reed declined a public defender, sought to represent himself and attempted to enter a guilty plea; the judge refused to accept a plea at that stage and ordered him held pending further proceedings.

Public response

The attack has reignited debate over electronic monitoring, mental-health care and public safety as city and federal officials review how someone with a serious criminal history remained under supervision when the alleged crime occurred. Investigations continue while MaGee receives medical treatment and authorities pursue charges.

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