Florida Man Sets Himself on Fire in Front of Supreme Court, Prompting Emergency Response

A Florida man identified as Max Azzarello set himself on fire in front of the Supreme Court in Washington D.C. on Friday, April 19, 2024. The incident occurred in Collect Pond Park, located across the street from the Manhattan Criminal Court where former President Donald Trump's hush money trial was being held.

Witnesses reported that Azzarello, a 37-year-old conspiracy theorist, calmly walked to the center of the park and threw pamphlets containing anti-government conspiracy theories into the air. He then proceeded to douse himself with a liquid, believed to be an alcohol-based cleaning solution, and set himself on fire.

Emergency crews, including civilians, court officers, and police officers, quickly responded to the scene and attempted to extinguish the flames. Azzarello was eventually taken to a hospital in critical condition, where he remains intubated. Three NYPD officers and one court officer were also treated for smoke inhalation and minor injuries sustained during the incident.

Prior to the self-immolation, Azzarello had posted a rambling manifesto online, claiming to be an "investigative researcher" who was protesting against a "totalitarian con" and an "apocalyptic fascist world coup." The manifesto touched on various conspiracy theories, including his belief that Ivy League colleges were fronts for the mob.

Why this matters: The incident highlights the potential dangers posed by individuals who subscribe to extreme conspiracy theories and the challenges faced by law enforcement in ensuring public safety. It also raises questions about the security measures in place around high-profile court proceedings, such as the ongoing trial of former President Donald Trump.

Authorities have stated that they found no immediate link between Azzarello's actions and the former president's trial, which was in recess at the time of the incident. The investigation into the self-immolation is ongoing, as law enforcement officials review security protocols outside the courthouse and work to determine the full extent of Azzarello's motivations.

Key Takeaways

• Florida man Max Azzarello set himself on fire outside Supreme Court in D.C.
• Azzarello, a 37-year-old conspiracy theorist, threw pamphlets before self-immolation.
• Emergency crews responded, and Azzarello was hospitalized in critical condition.
• Azzarello had posted a manifesto online criticizing "totalitarian con" and "fascist world coup."
• Authorities found no immediate link to Trump's hush money trial, but investigation ongoing.