CNN anchor Laura Coates had a harrowing experience outside the Manhattan Courthouse, where she was covering the historic hush money trial involving Donald Trump.
In a shocking turn of events, a man, identified as Max Azzarello from Florida, set himself on fire just feet away from her, causing panic among bystanders who mistook the commotion for an active shooter situation.
Reflecting on the incident in a monologue on her show, Laura Coates Live, she described it as “an unbelievably disgusting moment,” highlighting the trauma of witnessing such a distressing event.
As a former federal prosecutor familiar with the courthouse, Coates found herself in a role reversal, becoming a witness to a tragic scene rather than presenting cases to a jury.
The man’s actions left Coates grappling with unanswered questions about his motives and identity.
Initial reports suggested he was a conspiracy theorist, although his specific grievances did not revolve around former President Trump or President Biden.
His self-immolation was perceived as a form of protest tied to his conspiratorial beliefs.
Despite the shock and trauma of the incident, Coates felt compelled to return to her coverage of the trial, acknowledging the difficulty of moving forward after witnessing such a disturbing event.
As the trial proceedings continued, Coates reflected on the surreal experience and the unanswered questions surrounding the man’s actions.
The man has since succumbed to his injuries.
