New York City – A tragic incident unfolded outside the courthouse where the trial of former President Donald Trump is underway. A man, who had recently traveled from Florida to New York, set himself on fire in Collect Pond Park and has tragically passed away, according to the New York City Police Department. The man’s actions occurred amidst a backdrop of ongoing protests and media attention surrounding Trump’s trial, which commenced with jury selection earlier in the week.
Witnesses reported that the man was distributing pamphlets promoting conspiracy theories in the park before he ignited an accelerant, engulfing himself in flames. Despite the presence of numerous police officers nearby, the man was able to carry out the act without breaching any security checkpoints. His actions shocked those in the area, prompting some officers and bystanders to rush to his aid before he was rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
The park outside the courthouse, a known hub for protesters and onlookers throughout the trial proceedings, has seen a consistent but small crowd with generally peaceful interactions. Authorities are now reevaluating security measures in the area, considering potential access restrictions to prevent similar incidents in the future. The side street utilized by Trump for entry and exit from the building has been designated as off-limits as part of the security review. Deputy Commissioner Kaz Daughtry of the New York City Police Department expressed the possibility of shutting down the area in light of the recent events, signaling a potential shift in the security plan moving forward.