A 26-year-old woman, Bethany MaGee, has been described as a gentle, intelligent, and hardworking individual from a close-knit, small-town family in Upland, Indiana. She is currently in critical condition at a hospital burn unit following a horrific attack on a CTA Blue Line train in Chicago on November 17. The incident has brought widespread attention to the criminal justice system and the risks posed by repeat offenders.
MaGee was allegedly set on fire by Lawrence Reed, a 50-year-old career criminal with a long history of criminal activity. Reed was on electronic monitoring at the time of the attack, despite having a criminal record that includes multiple arrests and a history of violent offenses. The incident has reignited discussions about the effectiveness of current criminal justice policies, particularly regarding the release of repeat offenders and the use of electronic monitoring as a form of supervision.
Friends and neighbors have praised MaGee for her kindness and academic achievements, noting that she was an honors student in high school and had a strong, supportive family environment. The community in Upland, Indiana, is rallying around her family, offering prayers and support during this difficult time. The family has requested privacy as they process the tragedy.
The White House has also weighed in on the incident, criticizing left-wing policies in deep-blue cities for allegedly failing to protect law-abiding citizens. The statement highlighted the need for stricter policies to prevent criminals from being released back into society. The attack has also been classified as an act of terrorism or violence against a mass transportation system, underscoring the severity of the crime.
According to federal prosecutors, Reed intentionally used gasoline and a lighter to set MaGee on fire. The attack occurred as she was reading her phone on the train. Despite the violence, her family and community remain united in their hope for her recovery and their demand for justice. As the investigation continues, the incident has sparked a national conversation about public safety, the criminal justice system, and the need for more effective measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.