In Parque Collect Pond on a Friday afternoon at 1:30 p.m., Maxwell Azzarello, a 37-year-old man from Florida, began handing out leaflets discussing conspiracy theories in front of the New York court where former President Donald Trump is being tried. Witnesses reported seeing him throw leaflets in the air before setting himself ablaze with a lighter.
Sadly, Azzarello was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital on Saturday morning after being rushed there in critical condition. The incident took place outside the courthouse where Trump’s trial was taking place. This marked the first time a former president is being judged in such a manner. Authorities are now reviewing safety protocols in light of the incident, as Azzarello had not bypassed any security checks to enter the park.
Azzarello had been protesting outside the courthouse attacking political leaders from both parties, according to reports. He had a history of arrests in Florida for disorderly conduct and property damage, and was listed as unemployed and suicidal by local authorities. Meanwhile, Trump is holding a rally in North Carolina amidst his trial, denouncing it as a witch hunt and electoral interference.
