A person has set themselves on fire outside the New York courthouse where Donald Trump's hush-money trial has been taking place.

Reports claim a man was engulfed in flames for more than three minutes shortly after jury selection for the trial was completed.

CNN reporters say the person received medical attention and was taken from the area.

They added that the smell of smoke and burning human flesh lingered in the air.

One witness said: "I see a totally charred human being."

The courthouse in New York City is already under heightened security given the former president's presence in the courtroom each day.