Bethany MaGee’s loved ones will gather with her in the hospital this Thanksgiving, where she is slowly recovering from the severe burns that have taken more than 60 % of her body, after a deranged career criminal set her on fire while she rode a CTA train in Chicago last week.
In a GoFundMe page set up by her brother, John, readers are greeted with, “Bethany is a beloved daughter, sister, sister‑in‑law, granddaughter, and aunt. She is a good friend. She is sensitive, caring, intelligent, and imaginative.”
John continued, “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.”
MaGee, who was riding the L train on November 17, was struck by Lawrence Reed— a repeat offender with a staggering 72 arrests, including 22 since 2016—who poured gasoline on her and ignited it. She stumbled onto the next platform, where she collapsed in flames until passersby rushed to help, and was then transported to a local hospital for emergency treatment of her extensive facial and body burns.
When approached outside his suburban Indianapolis residence, John declined to comment, saying, “we are not giving comments at this time. Thanks for stopping by but no comments at this time.”
Despite the unimaginable circumstances, the MaGee family expressed gratitude this holiday season, noting that “they are so grateful for the chance to celebrate at Bethany’s side” and that she is receiving “excellent” care from her medical team.
Although much of Bethany’s medical costs are covered by insurance and a victims’ fund, the family launched the fundraiser in response to “countless requests” for help. They added, “Given the 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.”
In a separate address at the White House turkey‑pardoning ceremony, President Trump condemned the brutal attack, accusing the justice system of being too lenient on offenders like Reed. “They burned this beautiful woman riding in a train. A man was arrested 72 times. Seventy‑two times! Think of that. And liberal judges let him out again,” he said, further claiming the federal administration is “moving toward” Chicago to address what he called an “out of control” crime situation.
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