Man Charged With Lighting Woman On Fire On Blue Line Ordered Detained By Federal Judge

Lawrence Reed, a man with a lengthy criminal record, has been ordered detained on federal terrorism charges after allegedly setting a woman on fire on the CTA Blue Line. Security footage reportedly captured Reed pouring a flammable liquid on the 26-year-old victim before igniting it. Reed, who has been arrested 72 times and has 15 felony convictions, represented himself in court and expressed concern about receiving adequate meals while in custody. Mayor Brandon Johnson criticized the incident as indicative of systemic failures in mental health and criminal justice. The victim remains hospitalized and is receiving care for her injuries, with her family requesting privacy.

Reed was out on pretrial release for another aggravated battery case at the time of the attack. He has a history of violent offenses, including a 2020 arson conviction. The case highlights ongoing concerns about public safety and the management of individuals with severe mental health issues.