The family of 26-year-old Bethany MaGee, who was set on fire on a Chicago CTA Blue Line train, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover her long-term medical expenses. MaGee is currently being treated for severe burns following the November 17 attack.
Within just eight hours, the GoFundMe page raised more than $85,000 of its $110,000 goal, reflecting a massive wave of public support.
GoFundMe Raises Thousands as Bethany Faces Long Recovery
According to the fundraiser, MaGee is receiving “excellent care” from her medical team, but her recovery is expected to be lengthy and financially demanding.
The family wrote: “In response to the countless requests for a way to help, our family is setting up this GoFundMe on Bethany’s behalf. Many of her immediate medical expenses are covered by insurance and a victims fund, but with such a long road ahead of her, the freedom from financial worries would be a tremendous blessing.”
They added: “No gifts are expected, but any that are given will go directly to Bethany.”
The family also requested privacy, saying the incident will be “her story to tell—or not to tell—in the future.”
Here is her GoFundMe link – https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-bethany-magees-recovery
Who Is Bethany MaGee?
The GoFundMe page describes Bethany MaGee as:
- A beloved daughter, sister, sister-in-law, granddaughter, niece, and aunt
- Sensitive, caring, intelligent, and imaginative
- Someone who enjoys living in Chicago
- A fan of tabletop and video games
- Known for her kindness and inclusive nature
The post continues: “She loves living in Chicago… She is quick to include others in conversations and make them feel welcome. She is kind.”
The family concluded: “In this season of Thanksgiving, we are so grateful for the chance to celebrate at Bethany’s side. Thank you for keeping her and our family in your prayers.” Signed, “The MaGees.”
What Happened on the CTA Blue Line
Federal prosecutors have charged Lawrence Reed, 50, of Chicago, with committing a terrorist attack on a mass transit system. Court documents filed in the U.S. District Court’s Northern District of Illinois detail the horrific sequence of events.
According to an ATF arrest affidavit cited by CNN:
- Reed was sitting at the back of the CTA Blue Line train
- He allegedly poured a gasoline-like liquid over MaGee, who had her back to him
- MaGee ran toward the back of the train car
- Reed then ignited the bottle, approached her, and set her on fire
The train reached a downtown stop shortly after. Reed walked away while MaGee collapsed on the platform. She was rushed to Stroger Hospital of Cook County with severe burns to her head and body.
Reed has a lengthy criminal history, including past felony cases.
Community Support Grows as Bethany Continues Treatment
As MaGee recovers from the life-threatening attack, donations and messages of support continue pouring in. Her family says the financial help will ease the burden as she faces a long and difficult healing process.
