Man Who Set Himself on Fire to Protest Climate Change Has Died

The man who set himself on fire in front of the Supreme Court died this week, according to an NBC report.

The man was identified by Metro Police as Wynn Alan Bruce. He died from his injuries on Saturday. Bruce started the incident at 6:30 pm. He was taken to a local hospital by helicopter, but he did not survive.

Friends of the man posted memories and farewells on his Facebook page in response to recent posts.

One social media user who seems to have known Bruce posted on his page. Wynn was a kind and compassionate man and I saw him for many years. I don't know his motives, but my take is that as activists, we have to be careful not to sacrifice ourselves for the cause. I wish Wynn a happy birthday!

Long History

Bruce did not have an explanation on his Facebook at the time of the incident, but it is likely that he was inspired by previous examples of self-immolation, or setting oneself on fire to commit suicide, usually as a form of protest.

In 1963, a Buddhist monk in Vietnam set himself on fire. One of the most recognizable photos in modern history is the one taken by Malcolm Browne.

The Supreme Court wasn't in session at the time of the incident, and NBC said no one else was hurt. It's not clear if Bruce knew their schedule, but it's possible he chose to self-immolate in a way that posed no threat to government officials.

Bruce isn't the only one upset about the lack of action in response to environmental dangers, so let's hope those in power hear his message.

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