Horrifying moment man sets himself on fire at tourist hotspot
WARNING - DISTRESSING CONTENT: Disturbing video has emerged of the moment a man dressed as the grim reaper set himself on fire in front of stunned bystanders.
As horrified children watch on in a busy tourist hotspot at the Galata Tower in Istanbul, the man collapses to his knees as the flames engulf his whole body.
The stunt was carried out by a 28-year-old male, according to local media. He was seen walking around the city in black robes and carrying a scythe and a petrol can, The Sun reported.
In video filmed by an onlooker the man can be seen raising his arms amid the blaze as a gathered crowd initially appear unsure whether the act is a stunt.
He eventually collapses onto his back and local businessmen grab fire extinguishers and put out the flames.
A later video shows the man lying badly injured in the street, with scorched clothing hanging off him. He is seen sitting amongst a pile of rubbish bags, metres from busy restaurants.
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Local media reports the man was taken to hospital where he remains in hospital with second and third-degree burns.
Middle East Eye journalist Ragip Soylu said bystanders continued to take photos as the man burned in front of them.
After video was uploaded to social media, many criticised the bystanders for failing to intervene, however some defended the crowd who may have believed it was an act due to his costume.
Authorities have commenced an investigation into the incident.
It is unclear why the man set himself on fire at this stage. Soylu said there were unverified claims he had shouted Allah Akbar as he burnt himself.
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