Lawrence Reed, a 50-year-old man, entered a plea of not guilty on Friday to federal terrorism charges stemming from two separate incidents.
He is accused of dousing a woman with gasoline and igniting it on a CTA Blue Line train on November 17, leaving her hospitalized with critical injuries.
In addition, Reed faces allegations related to a fire at Chicago City Hall that occurred three days prior to the train attack.
If convicted, the charges could result in a maximum sentence of life imprisonment in federal prison.
Reed remains in custody while awaiting further court proceedings, with his next scheduled appearance set for January 20.
His criminal background includes over 70 prior arrests, and he has also been accused of attempting to sexually assault a female CTA rider and assaulting a man who intervened in March.
