A giveaway event by popular Twitch streamer Kai Cenat turned chaotic on Friday afternoon, August 4, 2023, after thousands of people gathered in Union Square in New York City. Cenat, who has over 6.5 million followers on Twitch, announced the giveaway on social media earlier in the week. He promised to give away gift cards, gaming PC equipment, and PlayStation 5s to fans who showed up at Union Square at 4:00 PM.
The event quickly drew a large crowd, and by the time 4:00 PM rolled around, there were thousands of people gathered in Union Square. The crowd was so large that it spilled out onto the surrounding streets.
As the crowd grew, so did the chaos. People began to push and shove, and some started to climb on top of vehicles. There were also reports of people throwing chairs and bottles. Police were called to the scene, but they were unable to control the crowd. The chaos continued for several hours, and eventually, the NYPD declared the event an unlawful assembly and ordered the crowd to disperse.
Kai Cenat has been charged by the NYPD on multiple counts for inciting a riot pic.twitter.com/4DjniPUrqo
— Dexerto (@Dexerto) August 5, 2023
The Aftermath of the Riot
The riot left several people injured, including police officers. There were also reports of property damage. The NYPD arrested 65 people, including 30 juveniles. Cenat was also arrested and charged with inciting a riot and unlawful assembly.
The riot has raised concerns about the safety of public events in New York City. It has also led to calls for more regulation of social media influencers who host large events.
The Impact of the Riot
The riot in Union Square has had a number of impacts. It has highlighted the potential for social media influencers to incite violence. It has also raised concerns about the safety of public events in New York City.
The riot has also led to calls for more regulation of social media influencers who host large events. Some people believe that influencers should be held accountable for the actions of their followers. Others believe that influencers should be required to obtain permits for large events.
What Can Be Done to Prevent Future Riots?
There are a number of things that can be done to prevent future riots. These include:
- Influencers should be more responsible with their words and actions. They should avoid making promises that they cannot keep, and they should be careful not to incite violence.
- Event organizers should take steps to ensure the safety of their attendees. This includes having adequate security measures in place and working with law enforcement.
- Governments should consider regulating social media influencers who host large events. This could include requiring influencers to obtain permits for large events and to take steps to ensure the safety of their attendees.
Conclusion: The riot in Union Square is a reminder of the potential for social media influencers to incite violence. It is also a reminder of the importance of safety at public events. There are a number of things that can be done to prevent future riots, and it is important that we take steps to make our communities safe.
