Chicago train Attack: Man with Extensive Criminal history Charged with Terrorism
A harrowing attack on Chicago’s public transit system has ignited national concern, as a man with a decades-long criminal record faces federal terrorism charges after allegedly setting a woman ablaze on a Blue Line train. The incident, which occurred Monday night, has prompted comparisons to a similar, random attack in Charlotte, North Carolina, earlier this year.
The suspect,50-year-old Lawrence Reed,was already under court-ordered electronic monitoring for an unrelated aggravated battery case at the time of the assault,prosecutors revealed during a Friday hearing. This detail underscores a troubling pattern of repeat offenses and raises questions about the efficacy of current pre-trial release protocols.
According to investigators, the victim was seated on the train, using her phone, when Reed approached her from behind, doused her with gasoline, and attempted to ignite her. The woman fought back, fleeing to the other end of the train car while Reed pursued her before successfully setting her on fire with the gasoline-filled bottle. The victim’s name has not been released, and her family has requested privacy as she receives medical attention.
Reed was apprehended the following morning and charged with one count of committing a terrorist attack, an offense carrying a potential life sentence. A senior official with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois stated that Reed could face the death penalty if the victim succumbs to her injuries.
The scope of Reed’s criminal history is extensive. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Bond disclosed during the detention hearing that reed has been arrested 72 times over the past 32 years, accumulating eight felony and seven misdemeanor convictions.Court records provided by the Cook County Circuit Court reveal over 60 criminal cases filed against him as 1993,encompassing offenses ranging from traffic violations to more serious charges including at least 15 instances of battery and assault,and at least two arson accusations.
“He has been given chance after chance after chance,” Bond argued, asserting that Reed poses “a clear danger to the community” and is “too risky for release.”
Adding another layer of complexity, Reed was on electronic monitoring due to an August incident in which he allegedly struck a hospital social worker in the face, causing a concussion and optic nerve bruising. His next court date for that case is scheduled for December 4th. A public defender representing Reed in that matter has not yet issued a statement.
The Cook County chief judge’s office declined to comment on the decision to release Reed on electronic monitoring in the battery case, citing state law that places limitations on a judge’s ability to deny pre-trial release.
Remarkably, Reed has chosen to represent himself in the federal terrorism case. During Friday’s detention hearing, U.S. Magistrate Judge Laura mcnally offered him legal counsel, but Reed insisted, “I’m representing myself.” He also expressed a desire to remain in custody, stating, “I’m a target from society…I don’t feel safe out there. I think for my safety, it’s best for me to be detained.” He repeatedly requested assurance that he would receive three meals a day while incarcerated and pleaded with the judge to “make sure I eat.”
investigators are leveraging surveillance footage to build their case. Cameras inside the train captured the attack, while cameras on the platform documented reed’s departure at a downtown stop. An affidavit from a federal Alcohol, Tobacco, Fire and Explosives agent details footage of Reed purchasing gasoline from a nearby gas station just 30 minutes before the incident.
The attack has prompted a wave of concern and questions about public safety on Chicago’s transit system. As the inquiry continues, authorities are focused on understanding the motive behind this brutal act and ensuring the safety of commuters.
—Beck reported from Omaha, Nebraska.Copyright 2025 The Associated Press.All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
