Man sets himself on fire outside Trump trial
Friend describes 'caring person' whose paranoia led him down 'a dark path'
Friends of a man who set himself on fire outside Donald Trump's trial have described him as a "caring person" whose paranoia had led him down "a dark path".
Max Azzarello, 35, set himself alight on Friday outside the Manhattan courthouse where Trump is facing charges of fraud and tax evasion.
Azzarello suffered serious burns and was taken to hospital in a critical condition. He died on Saturday.
In a statement, Azzarello's friends said they were "devastated" by his death.
"Max was a caring person who was deeply troubled by the state of the world," they said.
"He believed that the trial of Donald Trump was a turning point in history, and he felt compelled to take action."
"We are heartbroken that he chose to take his own life, but we understand that he was in a great deal of pain."
Azzarello had a history of mental illness and had been struggling with paranoia for several years.
In recent months, he had become increasingly obsessed with Trump and the trial.
On the day of the trial, Azzarello posted a message on social media in which he said he was "prepared to die" for his beliefs.
Azzarello's death has raised questions about the mental health of those who are involved in the Trump trial.
Prosecutors have said that they are concerned about the safety of the jurors, and have asked the judge to consider sequestering them.
The judge has not yet ruled on the request.
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