A man has set himself on fire outside the New York courtroom where Donald Trump’s hush money trial is taking place.
Only moments after a full jury had been selected to hear the trial at Manhattan Criminal Court, a man’s body was reportedly engulfed in flames for at least three minutes outside the building.
A CNN anchor said on air: “I see a totally charred human being.”
The man used a flammable liquid to set himself on fire in the designated protest area outside the court, with horrified bystanders screaming and fleeing.
Police with fire extinguishers rushed to the scene. Sirens could be heard blaring in the distance as correspondents reported smelling the burning of flesh. The heat of the flames could be felt from 100ft away, the New York Times reported.
A smouldering backpack and a gas can were visible afterwards according to one witness.
Police quickly taped off the scene. Nearby, a pamphlet was visible that referred to “evil billionaires” and called on people to “expose this corruption”.
It is unclear why the individual set himself on fire and what condition he is in. He is reported to have received medical attention before being rushed from the area in an ambulance.
Broadcasters recorded the scene – some then cut away and apologised for showing the footage – through metal barricades in place for Mr Trump’s trial.
The 12 jurors, along with six alternates, will consider evidence in the first ever criminal trial to determine whether a former US president is guilty of breaking the law.
The park is close to several courthouses and other buildings. Trump’s criminal trial, the first of a former president, is being conducted amid tight security in a 15th floor courtroom swarming with Secret Service officers as well as court police.
New York’s police department had promised a major deployment to ensure the trial passes off safely, with John Hart, the force’s head of intelligence calling it a “major challenge”.
A New York police department spokesman said: “A male did light himself on fire outside of the Supreme Courthouse. We’re still gathering details from the field.”