Bethany MaGee Obituary, Death – A 26-year-old woman who suffered severe injuries after a disturbing incident aboard a Chicago L train has been identified as Bethany MaGee. Authorities say the event occurred last week and has sparked widespread concern about public safety and the handling of repeat-offender cases.
According to information shared by officials, MaGee was riding the train during the evening hours of Monday, November 17, when she was suddenly and violently attacked. Investigators allege that the person responsible is 50-year-old Lawrence Reed, an individual with an extensive criminal history. Records show that Reed has been arrested many times in the past and has a history of both felony and misdemeanor convictions.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy publicly expressed deep concern about the circumstances surrounding the attack. In a statement, he emphasized that the incident raises serious questions about how repeat-offender cases are managed. Duffy noted that community members should not have to worry about their safety while using public transportation and stressed the importance of ensuring that individuals with ongoing criminal cases are properly monitored.
Video footage from inside the train reportedly helped investigators understand what happened. The recording shows MaGee sitting and looking at her phone when the assailant approached her from behind. Authorities say the attacker used a flammable substance during the incident. Though the full visuals have not been released due to their sensitive nature, officials confirm that MaGee sustained serious burn injuries and remains in critical condition at the hospital. Her condition continues to draw sympathy and concern from the community.
Bystanders on the train acted with caution as the situation unfolded, though the intensity of the event caused understandable confusion and fear. Once the train reached the next platform, MaGee was able to exit, where additional witnesses quickly stepped in to help her until emergency crews arrived. Authorities commended those individuals for their efforts to provide assistance during such a traumatic moment.
According to investigators, security footage from earlier that evening shows Reed purchasing gasoline at a local station. This detail has become part of the ongoing case and is being reviewed in connection with the charges he now faces. Prior to this incident, Reed had been released with an ankle monitor following an unrelated charge earlier in the year, despite requests from prosecutors that he remain in custody.
During a court appearance on Wednesday, Reed entered a plea related to the accusations. Federal and local officials have expressed strong opinions about the case, stating that someone with a long and serious criminal history should not have been released into the community without stronger oversight. ATF Special Agent-in-Charge Christopher Amon remarked that MaGee’s injuries highlight the consequences of repeated opportunities given to individuals with a record of violent conduct.
This recent attack comes only months after another tragic case in the city, in which 23-year-old Iryna Zarutska lost her life in an unrelated incident involving another repeat offender. The back-to-back nature of these events has led to renewed debate about public safety policies, pretrial release decisions, and the resources needed to protect commuters.
Authorities say the investigation into MaGee’s case remains active. Community leaders, safety officials, and transit agencies have all expressed their concern while calling for steps to ensure safe travel for Chicago residents. Support for MaGee continues to grow, with many expressing hope for her recovery as she receives medical care for her injuries.
