Career Criminal Sets Woman on Fire on Chicago Train; Outrage Grows

A shocking incident occurred in Chicago on November 17, 2023, when a woman was set on fire during a train ride, allegedly by a man with a lengthy criminal history. The victim, Bethany MaGee, 26, was attacked on the city’s L train by Lawrence Reed, 50, who has been arrested 72 times, including nine felony charges. The attack has sparked outrage and concern, particularly regarding public safety and the handling of repeat offenders.

According to the criminal complaint, the attack took place around 21:00 as MaGee was seated with her back turned to Reed. He approached her, poured a flammable liquid over her, and ignited it. MaGee managed to escape but suffered severe burns as a result of the attack. Reed now faces federal terrorism charges for the brutal act.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy publicly condemned the attack, expressing disbelief that someone with Reed’s extensive criminal record was free to roam the streets. “It is devastating that a career criminal with 72 prior arrests is now accused of attacking Bethany MaGee on Chicago’s L train,” Duffy stated on social media. He emphasized that such incidents would not occur if repeat offenders were properly incarcerated.

The White House also commented on the incident, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt questioning how a violent criminal could be at large. She stated, “An innocent, beautiful 26-year-old woman riding the subway was randomly set on fire by a career criminal. This monster should have been locked behind bars, not roaming the streets.” Leavitt pointed to a perceived failure of liberal crime policies that allegedly endanger law-abiding citizens.

Reed’s history raises significant concerns about the justice system’s ability to protect the public. Critics argue that lenient sentencing and repeated releases of offenders have created a dangerous environment. The White House highlighted the need for accountability, stating that “liberal soft-on-crime policies are failing American communities.”

This incident is not isolated, as it reflects a broader debate on public safety and judicial accountability. Calls for a re-evaluation of how repeat offenders are treated within the criminal justice system have intensified. Many advocates are urging reforms to ensure that individuals like Reed do not pose a continued threat to society.

As Bethany MaGee recovers from her injuries, the community is rallying around her. The incident has ignited discussions about the need for stricter measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The public is demanding justice not only for MaGee but also for victims of the many crimes Reed has committed in the past.

The situation in Chicago has become emblematic of larger issues within urban safety policies and the handling of repeat offenders. As the community seeks answers, the focus remains on ensuring safety for all passengers in public transit and holding accountable those responsible for allowing such violent individuals to remain at large.