In a shocking turn of events outside the courthouse where the Trump hush money trial is set to begin, a man set himself on fire, causing chaos and drawing the attention of law enforcement officials. The incident took place across the street from the courtroom, as the unidentified individual threw flyers into the air before igniting himself.

According to senior law enforcement officials, the man walked into a park adjacent to the courthouse and started distributing flyers that made various allegations against NYU, including the claim that it is a "mob front." Shortly after, he pulled something out of a backpack, its contents yet to be determined, and lit himself on fire.

Eyewitnesses on the ground reported that at least one person attempted to extinguish the flames with a fire extinguisher, while an EMT rushed to provide aid to the injured individual. Authorities have dispatched investigators to collect the scattered flyers in order to understand the motives behind this unsettling incident.

Meanwhile, inside the courtroom, the seating of alternate jurors has been completed, bringing the total number of jurors to 12, with an additional six alternates. The trial is expected to commence on Monday, with opening statements being delivered.

Prior to the start of the trial, Judge Juan Merchan addressed the jurors, instructing them not to discuss the case with others or conduct any personal research. He also mentioned that a routine Sandoval hearing, focusing on Trump's criminal history and the scope of questions prosecutors can ask if he testifies, will take place after the lunch break at 3:15 p.m. ET.

As the court adjourned for lunch, Judge Merchan emphasized the need for all 18 jurors to be present before proceeding each day. He expressed his expectation that the trial will officially commence on Monday, signaling the beginning of what promises to be a closely watched legal battle.

As more details surrounding the self-immolation incident and the trial itself emerge, reporters and onlookers alike remain captivated by the unfolding drama surrounding the Trump hush money trial.