According to US media reports, a man set himself on fire in a park opposite the courthouse in New York during the ongoing criminal trial of former president Donald Trump, reported German news agency (dpa).

The man poured a liquid over himself and set himself alight, according to unanimous reports from various media outlets, including The New York Times and CNN.

Bystanders had screamed and tried to help, the reports said. After a short time, police officers arrived and extinguished the flames. The man was then carried into an ambulance and driven away. It was initially unclear why he set himself on fire.

The incident took place in Collect Pond Park, directly opposite the courthouse where the criminal trial of Trump is currently taking place.

The courthouse is extensively cordoned off and numerous police officers are on permanent duty there. Dozens of media representatives with cameras and broadcast vans are gathered around it.

Opponents and supporters of Trump are allowed to gather for demonstrations in the park, but so far only a few have done so on the days of the trial.

The grounds are surrounded by barricades, but there are also open entrances.