UPDATE: A man with a staggering 49 prior arrests has been charged with federal terrorism after allegedly setting a 26-year-old woman on fire aboard a Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) train on Monday. Lawrence Reed, 50, was apprehended on Tuesday and is facing serious legal repercussions as the investigation unfolds.
The shocking incident occurred as the victim was simply “minding her business” while engaged with her phone, according to U.S. Attorney Andrew S. Boutros. As Reed approached her, he reportedly threw gasoline on her before igniting the flames. The young woman suffered burns covering over 50 percent of her body and remains in critical condition as of Wednesday night.
Reed’s courtroom appearance on Tuesday raised eyebrows when he insisted on representing himself, repeatedly stating, “I plead guilty.” However, when informed of the terrorism charge, he appeared confused, questioning, “What is this all about?”
Authorities report that the victim struggled to extinguish the flames herself, rolling on the ground in desperation. It wasn’t until she reached the platform that two bystanders intervened to put out the fire, highlighting a troubling lack of immediate assistance from other passengers.
Reed’s extensive criminal history is alarming. Of his 49 arrests, 10 are felonies, with previous charges including severe incidents such as knocking someone unconscious in August. Local reports indicate that many of these charges resulted in minimal consequences, raising serious questions about the judicial system’s ability to manage repeat offenders.
The case echoes broader concerns about public safety and judicial discretion, particularly as some community members spotlight Judge Teresa Molina-Gonzalez, who previously released Reed despite his long history of violent behavior. Critics argue that such decisions endanger innocent lives, noting the stark parallels to other violent incidents involving repeat offenders.
This incident has ignited heated discussions on social media, with users expressing outrage over the judicial system’s role in allowing Reed to remain free. Calls for accountability are growing louder, with many demanding that judges be held responsible for their decisions.
As the investigation continues, the community is left to grapple with the implications of this violent attack and what it means for public safety. Authorities are urging witnesses to come forward as they seek to gather more information.
The victim’s recovery remains uncertain, and local leaders are reassessing strategies to address violent crime in the city. Stay tuned for further developments in this urgent case as more information becomes available.
