Man fatally sets himself on fire outside UN headquarters: NYPD

A man died after setting himself on fire outside the United Nations headquarters in New York City on Thursday, police said, with authorities launching an investigation into the incident.

The New York Police Department (NYPD) said officers received an emergency call at 6:32 pm local time (2232 GMT) reporting that a man had set himself ablaze at the intersection of First Avenue and 42nd Street, near the UN headquarters.

“The male was transported to Bellevue Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Investigations are ongoing,” the NYPD said, without disclosing the victim’s identity or a possible motive.

The New York Post reported that the man was carrying a Tibetan flag during the incident, though the claim could not be independently verified.

The United Nations did not immediately respond to requests for comment.