Chicago Man with 49 Prior Arrests Accused of Setting 26-Year-Old Woman on Fire on CTA Train
CHICAGO — A 50-year-old man with a lengthy criminal history has been arrested and charged after allegedly setting a 26-year-old woman on fire aboard a CTA Blue Line train, leaving her with severe burns to her face and body.
Police identified the suspect as Lawrence Reed, who, according to court records, has been arrested 49 times before this latest attack.
Horrific Attack on Chicago Transit
The disturbing incident unfolded as passengers rode the CTA Blue Line when Reed allegedly doused the woman with an accelerant and set her on fire without provocation.
Witnesses reported panic as flames erupted inside the train car, forcing passengers to rush to the woman’s aid and alert authorities.
Officers arrested Reed shortly after the incident. While being transported, police said he spontaneously shouted disturbing remarks, including:
“Burn, btch!” and “Burn alive, btch!”
Victim in Critical Condition
Authorities said the woman suffered severe burns to her face and upper body and remains in critical condition at a local hospital. Doctors have not released further updates on her condition, but officials described her injuries as life-threatening.
Police are still working to determine what led up to the attack and whether Reed and the victim knew each other.
Suspect’s Extensive Criminal Record
Public records reveal Reed’s criminal history includes nearly five dozen prior arrests, spanning various charges over several decades.
Critics are already raising questions about how Reed, despite his record, remained free to allegedly commit such a violent act.
City officials have not commented on whether mental health services or prior release conditions played a role in his repeated run-ins with the law.
CTA Riders Left Shaken
The incident has reignited public safety concerns on Chicago’s public transit system, particularly on the Blue Line, where several high-profile attacks have occurred in recent years.
“This is beyond horrific,” said one commuter. “People should be able to ride the train without fearing for their lives.”
The Chicago Police Department and Cook County prosecutors have not yet announced formal charges but confirmed the investigation is ongoing.
Call for Justice and Accountability
Community leaders are demanding a closer look into the failures of the justice system that allowed someone with such an extensive record to remain on the streets.
Advocates for victims’ rights say this case is another tragic reminder of the need for stricter oversight and rehabilitation programs for repeat offenders.
For ongoing coverage and updates on this case, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
