Most people hop on a late-night train expecting nothing more than a quiet ride home, but for one young woman in Chicago, an ordinary moment turned into a nightmare she could never have imagined.
What happened to 26-year-old Bethany MaGee has now sparked outrage across the country and renewed conversations about public safety and the repeated release of violent offenders.
Introducing a Young Professional Caught in a Horrific Attack
Bethany MaGee, a business research analyst with Caterpillar, had built a promising life after graduating with a science degree from Purdue’s Polytechnic Institute.
Known among friends and family as a gentle animal lover and a devoted daughter to Emily and Dr. Gregory MaGee, she lived a quiet life rooted in Indiana.
But everything changed on a Monday night ride on Chicago’s Blue Line.
The Disturbing Moment the Attack Began
Surveillance footage later revealed Bethany sitting quietly in the train car, scrolling on her phone, when a stranger—identified by police as 50-year-old Lawrence Reed—approached her.
Without warning, he allegedly drenched her in gasoline.
Witnesses recalled that Bethany tried desperately to defend herself as Reed reportedly attempted to ignite the fuel, all while shouting horrific threats.
The Man Accused and a Troubling Criminal History
Reed’s background has only intensified the public fury.
Despite having more than 70 prior arrests and a pattern of violent behavior, he had been released earlier on an ankle monitor after another alleged assault on a social worker.
Prosecutors had warned that he posed a serious danger, but the judge allowed his release—an outcome many residents now say could have prevented Bethany’s suffering.
A Crime That Echoes Another Tragedy
Chicagoans have drawn parallels between this attack and the killing of Iryna Zarutska, a Ukrainian refugee fatally set on fire on a Charlotte light rail in August.
For many, Bethany’s ordeal feels like yet another example of what can happen when repeat offenders remain free despite alarming histories.
Bethany’s Severe Injuries and Ongoing Treatment
Bethany suffered burns across 60 percent of her body, especially her left arm and hand, according to an update from her church community.
She has already undergone surgery and will remain in the hospital for months while receiving intensive care and rehabilitation.
Through it all, her family has stayed by her side, thanking the public for their overwhelming support and praising the burn team caring for her.
Outrage from Officials and Law Enforcement
The attack has drawn sharp political reactions.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy publicly identified Bethany and condemned Chicago’s handling of repeat offenders, arguing that her suffering was preventable.
The Trump Administration also weighed in, using the incident to reinforce its criticism of local leadership and to call for stronger intervention to curb rising violence.
Witnesses Describe a Scene of Chaos and Courage
Commuters who were on the train and at the station painted a gut-wrenching picture of what unfolded.
Some people froze in shock, but a few rushed forward to help. One witness removed their own coat to smother the flames burning Bethany’s body.
Others knelt beside her, talking to her, comforting her, and trying to keep her conscious as she waited for emergency responders.
Their accounts recount both the horror and the humanity that appeared in the same moment.
What Investigators Have Revealed So Far
Federal prosecutors confirmed that the attack was completely random—Bethany didn’t speak to Reed, argue with him, or cross paths with him before the incident.
Additional footage reportedly shows Reed filling a container with gasoline just 20 minutes before boarding the train.
Investigators also noted that he had burns on his hands when he was arrested and appeared to be wearing the same clothes from the night of the attack.
Legal Consequences Begin to Unfold
Reed now faces a federal terrorism charge, and authorities have pointed out that the attack happened during hours when he wasn’t permitted to be outside his home, despite a judge recently expanding those hours.
His arrest reignited criticism of earlier judicial decisions that allowed him to remain free, despite warnings from prosecutors about the likelihood of future violence.
A Community Demanding Accountability
The attack has left many residents questioning how a man with such an extensive criminal history could be released repeatedly. Critics argue that the system failed Bethany, just as it failed other victims before her.
Officials are now being pressured to explain previous decisions, especially given that prosecutors specifically warned that Reed’s next offense would “likely be violent.”
What Comes Next?
The investigation is continuing, and Reed will face his charges in federal court.
Bethany remains hospitalized, fighting through treatment and healing with the support of her family, friends, and her wider community.
Her story has become a rallying point in the conversation about public safety, criminal justice reform, and the consequences of letting repeat offenders slip through the cracks.
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