A man has set himself ablaze at the National Mall in Washington D.C. today, shocking onlookers.

The horrific incident took place at 4:24 p.m. ET on Friday near the National Air and Space Museum, on Seventh Street Southwest.

. The unidentified reportedly doused himself with gasoline before set himself on fire. Up to six passersby reportedly ripped off their shirts to pat the fire and extinguish it.

After the flames were finally extinguished, the victim was flown by helicopter to Washington Medical Center, where he is currently suffering from life threatening injuries.

Several witness reports claim that the man poured gasoline on himself from a red canister before setting himself on fire. A red canister has been found near the scene.

Adam Stifel, who witnessed the incident, told CNN: "I saw a man sitting in flames. He had already doused himself in gasoline, I believe."

The motive for the man's action is not yet know, but the location of where he carried out the horrific act hints that it could have been a demonstration of sorts.

Today's incident happened a day after a woman was shot dead by law enforcement officers after attempting to drive her car into a barricade near the White House.