YouTuber Suk Min Choi has had charges dropped in connection with a video that showed fireworks being launched from a helicopter at a Lamborghini. The stunt, which drew significant attention online, was initially seen as a potential violation of public safety laws.

The incident occurred when Choi filmed the stunt in a Los Angeles-area setting, where fireworks were set off while the luxury car was in view. The video, posted in 2023, quickly went viral and raised concerns about the safety risks associated with such extreme acts.

The details of the case

Suk Min Choi’s stunt video, featuring fireworks launched from a helicopter at a Lamborghini, led to a federal investigation. Choi planned the shoot, traveling to Las Vegas for fireworks not legal in California. His idea involved an “attack helicopter” shooting fireworks at a car that evaded missiles using flares. Radar data showed the helicopter flying toward El Mirage Lake.

The pilot initially denied knowledge but later acknowledged unsafe activities. This resulted in the FAA revoking his certification. Drone operators raised safety concerns, but no first responders were on-site.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office filed a motion to dismiss the complaint against Choi with prejudice on July 3 after the U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Office confirmed that he had adhered to the terms of his agreement.

The motion was filed by U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark A. Williams. Ultimately, the charges were dropped after Choi complied with the pretrial diversion conditions.

Creating content and safety issues

The case brings attention to the growing concerns surrounding the risks of extreme stunts in online content. While content creators like Choi are given a significant amount of freedom to produce videos, incidents like this raise important questions about the responsibility creators have toward public safety.

Experts argue that such stunts, which can endanger both participants and the public, may set a dangerous precedent for other creators.

Featured image courtesy: NBC Los Angeles