Family of Chicago Train Fire Victim Speaks Out

Bethany MaGee is still receiving treatment at the hospital for severe burns after a man with more than 70 arrests doused her in gasoline and set her ablaze in an unprovoked attack on a Chicago train, the 26-year-old’s family shared on Tuesday.

The family has created a GoFundMe account to help support MaGee, confirming the young woman’s identity, but also asking for privacy during MaGee’s long road to recovery.

“On November 17, Bethany MaGee was riding a CTA train in Chicago when she was attacked,” the family wrote. “She is currently hospitalized with the severe burns she sustained, and she is receiving treatment under the excellent care of her medical team.”

The family described MaGee as an animal lover, kind, and sensitive.

“In response to the countless requests for a way to help, our family is setting up this GoFundMe on Bethany’s behalf,” the MaGees said. “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. No gifts are expected, but any that are given will go directly to Bethany.”

The GoFundMe has so far garnered more than $30,000 in donations.

Lawrence Reed, 50, has been charged with a federal terrorism offense in connection to the attack and is facing life in prison, The Daily Wire reported this week.

Surveillance footage shows the suspect dousing MaGee in gasoline and chasing her on the train car before setting her ablaze. Reed, who’s been arrested 72 times, allegedly shouted “burn alive, b****” and “burn, b****” during the attack.

Reed’s criminal history includes eight felony and seven misdemeanor convictions, according to the Associated Press. Reed’s arrests concern arson, assault and battery, and other offenses.

At the time of his most recent attack, Reed was ordered to wear electronic monitoring due an aggravated battery charge in which he was accused of hitting a social worker. Cook County prosecutors wanted to keep Reed behind bars until his trial, but the judge released him.

MaGee’s family asked for privacy at this time, writing, “This will be her story to tell—or not to tell—in the future.”

“What we can say is this: Bethany is a beloved daughter, sister, sister-in-law, granddaughter, and aunt,” the family continued. “She is a good friend. She is sensitive, caring, intelligent, and imaginative. She loves living in Chicago, and her gentle spirit makes her a favorite with every pet she meets. She enjoys playing tabletop and video games with her community, and she is quick to include others in conversations and make them feel welcome. She is kind.”

“In this season of Thanksgiving, we are so grateful for the chance to celebrate at Bethany’s side,” the MaGees closed. “Thank you for keeping her and our family in your prayers.”