Twitch influencer Kai Cenat breaks silence over NYC riot and reveals plan for another giveaway
Cenat said he would ‘do it the correct way’ the next time he holds an event
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Twitch streamer Kai Cenat has returned to the platform for the first time since a video game giveaway he held in New York's Union Square turned into a chaotic riot.
Mr Cenat, who is one of the most popular streamers on Twitch, had to be whisked away by NYPD officers to ensure his safety after the gathering turned dangerous. He was then arrested and charged with inciting a riot.
More than 6,000 people crammed into the square for the chance to see Mr Cenat and win gaming hardware, according to ABC7.
During his first stream back, Mr Cenat said the incident opened his eyes to how much influence he has over some of his fans.
"After Friday bro, I've come to realize the amount of, not only power, but influence that I have on people," he said.
He said he wanted the giveaway to be a "safe and fun" way to interact with his fans, and said he was disappointed at the turn the event took.
"I am beyond disappointed in anyone that became destructive that day," he said. Mr Cenat also advised that some of his followers need “serious counseling.”
Footage captured of the giveaway showed the kind of chaos and indiscriminate destruction that sometimes occurs after a major sports victory. Teenagers kicked out car windows, threw objects, blasted fire extinguishers, and fought with each other. Some climbed atop Mr Cenat's car as he was driving away and tried to hold on as it zipped away from the scene. A few fell off the moving vehicle.
The NYPD activated a Level 4 response — the highest of its disaster response categories — after initial attempts to scatter the attendees failed to end the riot.
The NYPD arrested 65 people, including 30 minors, on counts ranging from disorderly conduct to assaulting a police officer. Mr Cenat is facing one felony charge of riot first degree, causing public injury and damage, and two misdemeanour charges of inciting a riot and unlawful assembly.
The NYPD is still hunting for other teens who are wanted on suspicion of criminal mischief.
He said the next time he tries to do an event, he will "do it in the correct way."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments