In a shocking turn of events outside the Manhattan courthouse where Donald Trump’s trial is taking place, a man set himself on fire and tragically died, police confirmed. The man, identified as Maxwell Azzarello, a 37-year-old from Florida, was declared deceased by hospital staff after the incident.
Azzarello, described as an “investigative researcher,” posted a conspiracy-laden manifesto online just moments before the self-immolation. In the manifesto, he railed against corrupt politicians, billionaires, and warned of an impending “apocalyptic fascist world coup.”
The incident occurred as a full panel of 18 jurors have been seated to hear the evidence against Donald Trump in the criminal New York hush money trial. After four days of jury selection, the final alternate jurors were chosen, and opening arguments are set to begin on Monday.
The day also included a brief hearing where the prosecution inquired about bringing up prior misconduct and court cases involving Trump during cross-examination. Judge Juan Merchan will make a decision on this matter on Monday.
The shocking act of protest by Azzarello has left many stunned and raises questions about the motivations behind such extreme actions. As the trial continues, the focus remains on the legal proceedings and the evidence presented against the former president.