YouTuber Alex Choi, known for his automotive-centric content and large online following, has found himself in serious legal trouble. The content creator, whose real name is Suk Min Choi, was arrested and charged by federal authorities following an investigation into a video posted on his YouTube channel. This video, titled “Destroying a Lamborghini with Fireworks,” has landed Choi in hot water and facing a potentially lengthy prison sentence. So, What Happened To Alex Choi?
The charges stem from a video uploaded to Choi’s YouTube channel, which boasts over 900,000 subscribers. In the now-removed video, two women are depicted firing fireworks from a helicopter at a Lamborghini sports car. According to a federal complaint from the Department of Justice (DOJ), the video appears to be a real-life recreation of a scene from a video game. Authorities believe the video was filmed on June 27, 2023, at the El Mirage Dry Lakebed in San Bernardino County.
Still from the "Destroying a Lamborghini with Fireworks" video showing fireworks being launched from a helicopter towards a red Lamborghini, part of the evidence against YouTuber Alex Choi.
Choi, a 24-year-old resident of Studio City, California, was arrested on Wednesday and subsequently charged with causing the placement of an explosive or incendiary device on an aircraft. This serious federal charge carries a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in prison if he is convicted. He made his initial court appearance in downtown Los Angeles on Thursday, with his arraignment expected in the coming weeks.
Prior to filming the controversial video, Choi allegedly communicated via text message that he would need to purchase the fireworks in Nevada because they are illegal in California, according to the complaint. Prosecutors state that Choi did not obtain the necessary permits for filming a shoot involving fireworks and a helicopter.
Image of Alex Choi, also known as Suk Min Choi, from the "Destroying a Lamborghini with Fireworks" video, highlighting his alleged involvement in the illegal stunt.
The complaint details Choi’s active participation in the video production. He is allegedly seen driving the Lamborghini and humorously pressing a “fire missiles” button while the women in the helicopter discharged fireworks at the vehicle. Furthermore, footage reportedly shows Choi standing near the helicopter, holding what appears to be a firework. The video also included behind-the-scenes content, with credits stating “Directed by Alex Choi” and Choi thanking a camera company for participating in his “crazy stupid ideas,” as outlined in the DOJ complaint.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has also taken action, revoking the helicopter pilot’s license due to the dangerous stunt. While the DOJ has not commented on potential charges for others involved in the video, the focus remains firmly on Alex Choi and his alleged role in orchestrating this hazardous and illegal activity.
Promotional still from Alex Choi's "Destroying a Lamborghini with Fireworks" YouTube video, now central to a federal case against him for dangerous and illegal activities.
The case against Alex Choi serves as a stark reminder of the potential legal ramifications of dangerous stunts performed for online content. As the legal proceedings unfold, the question remains: what will happen to Alex Choi and what impact will this case have on the world of online content creation and accountability?
