Outside the court where Donald Trump is currently standing trial in Manhattan, a dramatic scene played out as a man set himself on fire on Friday. Officers quickly responded to extinguish the flames.
Burnt clothing littered the park, which was immediately locked down by authorities. Ambulances stood by nearby, as an AFP correspondent on the scene noted a strong smell of burning chemicals in the air.
This incident unfolded right after the selection of the full panel of 12 jurors and six alternates for the trial of the former president in a hush money cover-up case.
A spokesperson from the New York Police Department stated, “A male individual lit himself on fire outside the Supreme Courthouse. We are currently gathering more information from the field.”
Although the fire department did not provide immediate comments, reports from the media indicated that the man was taken for medical treatment.
This unsettling incident took place in a park located opposite the 100 Centre Street courthouse. The park has served as a gathering space for protesters on both sides of the political spectrum, as well as for some members of the press.
Being in close proximity to several courthouses and other structures, the park is a popular lunch spot for locals.
Trump’s criminal trial, the first of its kind involving a former president, is being conducted under heavy security measures. Secret Service officers and court police heavily patrol the 15th-floor courtroom where the trial is being held.
The New York Police Department had assured a substantial deployment to ensure the trial proceeds securely, with the force’s head of intelligence, John Hart, acknowledging the significant challenge ahead.
AFP