Exclusive | Bethany MaGee ‘very gentle’ and comes from ‘wonderful family’: pals, neighbors

UPLAND, Ind. – Bethany MaGee, a 26-year-old woman who was tragically set on fire by a repeat offender on a Chicago train, is described as a “very soft-spoken, very gentle” individual by a friend. MaGee, a former honors student, is currently fighting for her life with severe burns covering her body.

MaGee, who comes from a close-knit Christian community in Upland, Indiana, was raised by a loving and supportive family. Friends and neighbors have come together to offer prayers and support to her family during this difficult time.

According to reports, MaGee was attacked by Lawrence Reed, a 50-year-old man with a long history of arrests, while riding a CTA Blue Line train. Reed, who has been arrested 72 times in the past, allegedly doused MaGee with gasoline and set her on fire using a lighter.

Described as incredibly intelligent and gentle by a former high school classmate, MaGee was known for her love of reading and academic achievements. She attended honors classes at a local high school in Indiana before the tragic incident on the train.

Despite her family’s request for privacy as they cope with the aftermath of the attack, the community has shown an outpouring of love and support for the MaGee family.

Reed, who has a lengthy criminal record dating back to 1993, including multiple felonies, was previously arrested for aggravated battery but was released with an ankle monitor. This decision has sparked outrage, with many questioning the justice system’s handling of repeat offenders.

US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy expressed his frustration on social media, condemning the release of Reed and highlighting the need for stricter consequences for repeat offenders.

Reed now faces federal terrorism charges in connection to the attack on MaGee. Despite his troubled past, friends of MaGee believe that mental health issues may have played a role in the violent incident.

Surveillance footage captured the harrowing moment when Reed approached MaGee on the train and set her on fire. MaGee managed to escape the train but collapsed on the platform with severe burns to her face and body.

As MaGee continues to fight for her life, the community remains united in support of her and her family during this difficult time. The senseless act of violence has left many questioning the justice system and the need for better support for individuals with mental health issues.