The woman set on fire aboard a Chicago L train earlier this month has been identified as Bethany MaGee, a 26-year-old business research analyst from Indiana. Authorities say MaGee suffered severe burns after a man allegedly doused her with gasoline and set her on fire while she traveled on the Blue Line.
US Transportation Secretary Calls Case “Devastating”
US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy condemned the attack, describing it as “devastating.” He said the incident involved “a career criminal with 72 prior arrests.”
In a statement posted on social media, Duffy wrote that MaGee had been attacked by “a man with a lengthy rap sheet.”
“This would never have happened if this thug had been behind bars,” — Sean Duffy, on suspect Lawrence Reed
Reed, 50, is now facing federal terrorism charges in connection with the assault.
Duffy also criticized what he described as “soft-on-crime policies,” saying: “Chicago’s carelessness is putting the American people at risk. No one should ever have to fear for their life on the subway.”
Attack Compared to North Carolina Train Killing
The assault on Bethany MaGee has drawn comparisons to a fatal September attack on a Charlotte Blue Line train in North Carolina. In that case, 23-year-old Iryna Zarutska was fatally stabbed by Decarlos Brown Jr., a man with a long history of violence and mental illness who had been released on cashless bail.
What Happened During the Chicago Metro Attack?
According to reports, MaGee was sitting in a train car when Lawrence Reed allegedly approached her, poured gasoline over her body, and set her on fire. Surveillance footage reviewed by investigators captured the terrifying moment.
Despite her injuries, MaGee managed to escape the train and survive the attack.
🚨 If Daniel Penny had been on that train in Chicago, Bethany MaGee would be burn free, Lawrence Reed would be dead, Daniel Penny would be on trial and the media would’ve made it national news! pic.twitter.com/7iEVRkifTk
— Alec Lace (@AlecLace) November 23, 2025
Who Is Bethany MaGee?
Bethany MaGee, the primary keyword for this article, is a 26-year-old business research analyst for Caterpillar. She is originally from Upland, Indiana, and holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Purdue University’s Polytechnic Institute.
Her social media shows she is close with her family — parents Emily and Dr. Gregory MaGee — and her two brothers, Mark and John. Her father serves as a professor of Biblical studies at Taylor University. She is also known for her love of animals and her involvement in church activities.
Bethany MaGee’s Current Condition
MaGee suffered burns to around 60% of her body, with the most severe injuries affecting her left arm and hand. She underwent surgery earlier this week and is expected to remain in the hospital for at least three months as she continues intensive treatment and rehabilitation.
Her family released a statement expressing gratitude for the support they have received: “We would like to thank everyone for their prayers and well-wishes as our daughter receives care for injuries sustained earlier this week. We are also grateful for the excellent care and support of the burn team at Stroger Hospital.”
