Amid the conclusion of jury selection for Donald Trump‘s hush-money trial in New York, a shocking incident unfolded outside the courthouse.
A man set himself ablaze, drawing horrified attention from bystanders and media covering the historic trial.
Despite initial speculation, officials stated that the man did not appear to be targeting Trump or any individuals involved in the trial.
Witnesses described the disturbing scene as the man burned for several minutes, his actions seemingly preluded by the distribution of pamphlets.
While the man’s survival was confirmed, he remained in critical condition at a hospital. Authorities identified him as Max Azzarello of St. Augustine, Florida, characterizing him as a “conspiracy theorist” based on an online manifesto where he apologized to acquaintances and criticized various societal aspects.
Inside the courthouse, jury selection concluded, paving the way for prosecutors and defense attorneys to present their cases.
The trial, centered on allegations of covering up payments to porn star Stormy Daniels, marks the first-ever criminal trial of a former U.S. president.
Trump faces charges of falsifying business records related to a $130,000 payment made to Daniels before the 2016 election to keep quiet about an alleged affair.
The trial’s diverse jury, comprised mostly of white-collar professionals from various backgrounds, will weigh evidence to determine Trump’s guilt.
Despite Trump’s plea of not guilty, the trial carries significant implications, being the only one scheduled before the upcoming election.
A conviction would not disqualify Trump from seeking office again, but it would mark a significant legal setback for the former president.
