A shocking event unfolded outside the Manhattan courthouse on Friday, where former U.S. President Donald Trump is being tried.
A man identified as Maxwell Azzarello from St. Augustine, Florida, set himself on fire in a protest that left him in critical condition.
The incident occurred in a park across from the courthouse during the fourth day of the Trump trial, which involves allegations of falsifying business records related to hush money payments.
According to authorities, Azzarello used an alcohol-based cleaning substance to ignite the fire shortly after jury selection for the trial concluded.
CNN correspondent Laura Coates, who witnessed the event, reported live as emergency responders rushed to extinguish the flames and treat Azzarello.
“There is chaos that is happening,” she described. Officers and bystanders intervened, attempting to shield his body from further flames, while others worked to keep the gathering crowd at a distance.
Before setting himself alight, Azzarello was seen distributing pamphlets featuring conspiracy theories, though it remains unclear if his actions were directly related to the Trump trial.
The pamphlets, titled “The True History of the World (Haunted Carnival Edition),” contained bizarre references and accusations against “evil billionaires.”
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Police had difficulty reaching him initially due to barricades around the park, part of heightened security measures surrounding the high-profile trial. Emily Ngo, a Politico reporter at the scene, described the event as a “very scary, active scene” on the social media platform X.
“He was responsive when he was removed but is very, very badly burned. Body charred,” Ngo reported.
The trial is set to proceed next week with opening statements, with a jury comprising New Yorkers from various professional backgrounds.
This trial marks a significant moment in U.S. history, being the first criminal trial of a former president.
As Azzarello receives medical attention, the incident has sparked further discussions about security and the intense emotions surrounding the trial. The area remains under strict surveillance, with further updates on Azzarello’s condition expected as they become available.
