CHICAGO, Illinois — A 50-year-old man with an extensive criminal history is now facing a federal terrorism charge after authorities say he set a woman on fire during an unprovoked attack aboard a CTA Blue Line train Monday night. A federal complaint filed Wednesday accuses Lawrence Reed of committing a terrorist attack against a mass transportation system, a charge carrying a potential life sentence.
The attack occurred just before 9:30 p.m. as the train approached the Clark and Lake station in the Loop. Prosecutors say Reed walked through the railcar, poured a flammable liquid onto a 26-year-old woman, and then ignited it. Surveillance footage shows the victim running for safety before being engulfed in flames. Two bystanders on the station platform helped extinguish the fire. She remains hospitalized in critical condition.
Authorities say Reed purchased gasoline at a nearby Citgo station minutes before the attack and was arrested downtown shortly after, still wearing clothing seen on video. He reportedly suffered burns and allegedly shouted violent statements while being transported to a police facility.
Reed appeared in federal court Wednesday, where he repeatedly interrupted proceedings, claimed guilt, and declined legal representation. His criminal record includes dozens of prior arrests and past convictions for arson and battery. Officials say he is also a suspect in a recent attempted arson at Chicago’s City Hall.
Reed is scheduled for a detention hearing on Friday.
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