Lawrence Reed Charged with Federal Terrorism After Alleged Attack on Chicago Blue Line Train

CHICAGO, Ill. — November 20, 2025 — Lawrence Reed has been federally charged with terrorism-related offenses after authorities say he set a woman on fire aboard a Chicago Blue Line train earlier this month. Officials reported that Reed allegedly doused the victim in a flammable liquid and ignited it while shouting profanities, causing serious injuries.

According to law enforcement sources, the incident occurred on a Blue Line train traveling through the city. The victim was engulfed in flames before other passengers intervened and emergency responders arrived. She was transported to a local hospital with severe burns and is currently undergoing treatment.

Reed, who has a documented history of multiple arrests, was taken into custody shortly after the attack. Federal prosecutors have charged him with terrorism-related crimes, citing the nature of the assault and its impact on public safety. Authorities have not disclosed additional details about the specific charges or any potential motives behind the attack.

The Chicago Police Department and federal agencies are continuing to investigate the case. Officials emphasized the rarity of such violent acts on public transit and expressed concern for the victim’s recovery and the safety of commuters.

Public transit riders in Chicago have been shaken by the incident, which has prompted calls for increased security measures on trains and at stations. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) has stated it is cooperating fully with investigators and reviewing safety protocols to prevent similar occurrences.

Reed’s prior arrests reportedly span various offenses, though details on those cases have not been released by authorities. His criminal background played a role in the decision to pursue federal charges, officials said.

This attack marks one of the most severe assaults on Chicago’s public transportation system in recent years. It has raised questions about how to better protect passengers and respond swiftly to violent incidents in transit environments.

Authorities urge anyone with information related to the case to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation. Meanwhile, the victim’s condition remains serious, and support services have been offered to those affected by the event.

The federal terrorism charges carry significant penalties if Reed is convicted. The case is expected to proceed through the federal court system in the coming weeks.