Streamer Kai Cenat ‘Beyond Disappointed’ in Mayhem at NYC Event
NEW YORK (NEWSnet/AP) — Kai Cenat, the 21-year-old social media influencer who was charged with inciting a riot after a gathering of thousands of followers erupted last week in New York City says he is “beyond disappointed” in the bad behavior.
Cenat spoke publicly for the first time since the incident Aug. 4 in Manhattan's Union Square.
“Beyond disappointed in anybody who became disruptive that day, bro,” Cenat said Wednesday on Twitch. “None of that is cool, bro, you feel what I'm saying?”
Thousands of fans of Cenat, who has millions of followers on Twitch, YouTube and other platforms, arrive at Union Square after Cenat announced he would be there for a giveaway of video-game consoles and other electronic devices.
A crowd of mostly young people packed into Union Square Park, some running running through nearby streets, swinging objects at car windows and climbing atop buses. Several people were injured, including at least four who were taken to hospitals, and 65 people were arrested.
Cenat, who did not have a permit for the Union Square gathering, was arrested on charges of inciting a riot and promoting an unlawful gathering. He has an Aug. 18 court date.
Cenat, who grew up in the Bronx but now lives in Atlanta, said he had planned the event as a gift to his hometown.
“It has been my dream to want to give back to the community that made me who I am, bro,” he said on Twitch. “But after Friday, bro, I’ve come to realize the amount of not only power but influence that I have on people.”
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