Federal Terrorism Charge Filed in Chicago Train Firebombing Attack

A Chicago man faces a federal terrorism charge for an alleged firebombing on a city train. Lawrence Reed, 50, is accused of setting a 26-year-old woman ablaze on a CTA Blue Line train. The brutal attack happened on the evening of November 17.

Federal prosecutors filed the charge on November 19. The victim suffered life-threatening burns and remains hospitalized in critical condition. This unprovoked attack has shocked the city and drawn national attention.

Details of the Unprovoked Blue Line Assault

According to an ATF affidavit reported by CNN, Reed was sitting at the back of the train car. He approached the woman, who had her back to him. Reed allegedly doused her with a liquid believed to be gasoline.

The victim then ran toward the rear of the car. Reed is accused of igniting the bottle and setting her on fire. Surveillance footage from a gas station reportedly shows Reed filling a container about 30 minutes prior.

The train stopped at the Clark/Lake station downtown. Witness Christopher Flores told CBS News the victim stumbled out, completely engulfed in flames. Bystanders rushed to help her on the platform before she was rushed to Stroger Hospital.

Accused Attacker’s Lengthy Violent History

Court records reveal Lawrence Reed has an extensive criminal background. According to CBS News Chicago, he has been arrested 49 times. This includes 10 prior felony cases.

One active case involves an attack on a hospital social worker last August. Prosecutors had requested he be held in custody for that incident. Instead, a judge placed him on electronic monitoring.

ATF Special Agent-in-Charge Chris Amon stated Reed had too many second chances. Amon said the victim is now fighting for her life because of it. Reed was arrested the morning after the attack, reportedly wearing the same clothes and bearing a burn on his hand.

This disturbing Chicago train attack highlights severe challenges in addressing repeat violent offenders. The federal terrorism charge signals prosecutors are treating the mass transit assault with utmost seriousness.

Thought you’d like to know

What happened in the Chicago train attack?

A man allegedly poured a flammable liquid on a woman and set her on fire. The attack occurred on a CTA Blue Line train on November 17. The victim suffered critical burns.

What charge does Lawrence Reed face?

Reed faces a federal count of committing a terrorist attack on a mass transit system. This is a severe charge brought by U.S. prosecutors. He could face a lengthy prison sentence if convicted.

What is the victim’s condition?

The 26-year-old woman was hospitalized in critical condition. She suffered severe burns to her head and body. Her name has not been publicly released by authorities.

Did the suspect have a criminal record?

Yes, records show 49 prior arrests and multiple convictions. This includes an active case for allegedly battering a hospital worker. Previous charges ranged from drug offenses to vandalism.

How was the suspect identified?

Police used surveillance footage from a gas station near the attack. The video allegedly showed Reed filling a container with gasoline. He was arrested wearing the same clothing seen in the footage.

Why is this a federal terrorism case?

Federal law defines attacks on mass transit systems as terrorism. The charge applies due to the use of fire and the location. Prosecutors deemed the act severe enough for federal jurisdiction.