Chicago Man Indicted for Allegedly Setting Woman on Fire

A man with a lengthy criminal record, who was released after a charge related to an August assault, has been indicted on federal charges for allegedly setting a young woman on fire while on a Chicago Blue Line train. This incident occurred on Monday, prompting serious repercussions.

Lawrence Reed, 50, faces charges for executing a terrorist attack or violence against public transportation, as stated in a recent criminal complaint. Prosecutors argue that Reed intentionally used gasoline and a lighter to ignite the woman while she was on the train around 9:30 p.m.

According to federal authorities, Reed approached the victim, who was sitting “reading her cell phone, minding her own business,” and poured gasoline over her before attempting to light it. Following her attempts to escape, he ignited the remaining gasoline, setting her ablaze and watching as she lay on the floor battling the flames.

U.S. Attorney Andrew Boutros expressed concern that no one intervened to help the woman as she struggled to extinguish the fire. Although the train stopped at Clark and Lake, the woman, still engulfed in flames, managed to escape before collapsing on the platform. Fortunately, two bystanders came to her aid and put out the fire that was burning her.

The woman sustained severe burns and remains in critical condition, according to officials. Video evidence captured Reed purchasing the gasoline just 20 minutes before the attack and subsequent footage showed him lighting the bottle before committing the act.

Reed was taken into custody the following morning, still in the same clothing and with burns on his right hand. He reportedly shouted “burn” and “burn alive” while being transported. Investigators found evidence, including a partially melted bottle and a lighter, from the train scene.

During his initial court appearance, Reed allegedly shouted, “I plead guilty,” to which the presiding judge informed him of the potential life sentence he faces. Following this hearing, Chris Amon, ATF Special Agent in Charge, condemned Reed’s violent background, noting that he shouldn’t have been on the streets.

Moreover, Reed has an extensive criminal history that includes charges ranging from aggravated arson to multiple battery incidents. Notably, he had been charged with aggravated assault in a psychiatric hospital just months prior to this incident but was allowed to walk free with an ankle monitor.

This chilling case raises questions about public safety and the measures in place to oversee individuals with a history of violence. As the investigation continues, community leaders and law enforcement agencies reflect on the circumstances that led to such a tragic event.