Azzarello, identified by the NYPD, doused himself in a flammable liquid and set himself on fire outside a Manhattan courthouse where former President Donald Trump’s business record falsification trial was taking place. The incident prompted officials to consider restricting access to Collect Pond Park. Max Azzarello of St. Augustine, Florida, survived the blaze and remains in critical condition in the hospital. Police found “conspiracy theory-type” pamphlets related to Ponzi schemes and mob involvement near the scene, but do not believe he targeted a specific individual or group with his actions. A review of his social media posts and online manifesto reveals his far-left anarchistic beliefs and calls for revolution. Azzarello’s writings suggest he identified as an Anarcho-Communist and was a proponent of left unity. The investigation into his motives continues as authorities seek to understand the events leading up to his self-immolation.
Azzarello clarifies his main goal, which is to eliminate the government and establish a new, vague-sounding one that “serves all.”
During a press conference, police confirmed that before setting himself on fire, Mr. Azzarello distributed pamphlets described by an NYPD official as being propaganda-based, resembling a “conspiracy theory type pamphlet.”
One investigator mentioned at the press conference, “Some information regarding Ponzi schemes, and the notion that some local educational institutions are fronts for the mob.”
“So there seems to be a conspiracy theory element at play here,” the official added.
Police stated that Mr. Azzarello’s family has been informed, and the incident is currently under investigation.
