A Studio City YouTuber, known as Alex Choi online, is facing federal charges after posting a video titled “Destroying A Lamborghini With Fireworks.” The video depicted two women shooting fireworks out of a helicopter at a Lamborghini on a dry lake bed in Southern California. This dangerous stunt has landed Choi in legal trouble for allegedly placing an explosive device on an aircraft.
YouTuber’s Lamborghini Fireworks Stunt Leads to Federal Charges
Suk Min Choi, who uses the alias Alex Choi on social media platforms, was charged with causing the placement of an explosive or incendiary device on an aircraft. The charges arose from a video uploaded around July 4, 2023, showcasing the destructive stunt. The federal criminal affidavit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. Federal authorities allege that Choi failed to obtain necessary approvals from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for filming the video. He also lacked the required explosives license or permit from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
The affidavit describes how Choi meticulously planned the video shoot, including a trip to Las Vegas to purchase fireworks due to their illegality in California. An email written by Choi revealed his vision for a short video depicting an “attack helicopter” launching fireworks at a fleeing Lamborghini equipped with countermeasures. Text messages exchanged between Choi and the camera company further revealed discussions about capturing “insane 360-degree bumpers shot with firecrackers” and using a helicopter to film the spectacle. Choi even suggested having someone in the helicopter shoot fireworks back at the car.
FAA Investigation and Pilot’s Revoked License
Radar data confirmed the helicopter’s flight path from a Pacoima airport to El Mirage Lake, the dry lake bed where the video was filmed. Notably, the helicopter’s transponder was deactivated during the shoot. The FAA initiated an investigation after being alerted to the video. The pilot initially denied involvement but later admitted to concerns about Choi’s unsafe practices involving cars and aircraft. Subsequently, the FAA revoked the pilot’s private pilot certification through an emergency order. Interviews with drone operators present during filming corroborated the lack of safety precautions and the absence of first responders. One operator described a “spontaneous” safety talk led by Choi before filming commenced.
Previous YouTuber Stunt Highlights Growing Concern
This incident follows a similar case where another YouTuber received a six-month prison sentence for intentionally crashing a plane to gain views and fulfill a sponsorship deal. These cases underscore the increasing concern over dangerous stunts performed for online content. Choi, who boasts nearly a million subscribers on YouTube, could not be reached for comment, and the video appears to have been removed from his channel. It remains unclear whether he has retained legal counsel.
Conclusion: Consequences of Reckless Online Content Creation
The charges against Alex Choi highlight the serious legal ramifications of undertaking dangerous stunts for online content. The lack of necessary permits, disregard for safety regulations, and potential for harm underscore the need for responsible content creation. This case serves as a cautionary tale for individuals seeking online fame through reckless behavior. The incident involving fireworks and a Lamborghini emphasizes the potential for severe consequences, including federal charges and the revocation of professional licenses.
