A man, identified by the New York City police as Maxwell Azzarello from St. Augustine, Florida, has tragically passed away after setting himself on fire outside the courthouse where former President Donald Trump’s hush money trial is underway. The incident occurred on Friday, and Azzarello was located in the designated protest area outside the courthouse.

NYPD Chief of Department Jeffrey B. Maddrey provided details to reporters, stating that Azzarello entered Collect Pond Park, adjacent to the courthouse, around 1:30 p.m. He then proceeded to pour a liquid accelerant on himself, ignite the fire, and fell onto a police barrier before collapsing to the ground. Bystanders, court officers, and police rushed to his aid, using coats and fire extinguishers to try to extinguish the flames.

The incident coincided with the jury being fully empaneled for Trump’s trial, just before a lunch break. Azzarello was taken to Weill Cornell Medical Center’s burn unit, where he was initially described as alive but in critical condition. Sadly, he succumbed to his injuries.

Four police officers and one court officer sustained minor injuries while dealing with the fire. Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny revealed that Azzarello, born in 1987, had arrived in New York City earlier that week. Family members contacted by the police were unaware of his presence in the city. Azzarello’s pamphlets, found at the scene, appeared to contain “propaganda-based” content about Ponzi schemes and conspiracy theories.

Law enforcement officials stated they do not believe Azzarello targeted any specific individual or group. While a bomb squad search team was deployed as a precaution, no devices were discovered in the vicinity.

Three law enforcement sources informed NBC News that Azzarello may have been influenced by conspiracy theories and possibly had emotional issues. There are indications he may have posted his intentions to set himself on fire beforehand.

Eyewitnesses described the horrific scene, with the man dousing himself in a flammable substance and igniting it deliberately. Despite efforts by police and bystanders, the fire could not be extinguished in time to save Azzarello. The incident left those present shaken and horrified, with some recalling the chaos of past traumatic events.