Alex Choi, a 24-year-old YouTuber known for his “car shenanigans,” is now facing federal charges after allegedly directing a video in which two people in a helicopter shot fireworks at a speeding Lamborghini.
The Department of Justice announced on Thursday that Choi is being charged with causing the placement of an explosive or incendiary device on an aircraft. If found guilty, he could face up to ten years in federal prison.
According to prosecutors, Choi posted a video last July titled “Destroying a Lamborghini with Fireworks.” The video no longer appears on the platform.
However, authorities claim that the footage shows Choi pressing a “fire missiles” button while two women aboard a helicopter shoot fireworks at the sports car as it races through a desert landscape.
It is believed that the video was filmed at the El Mirage Dry Lake Bed in rural San Bernardino County, approximately 60 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles.
Choi, who boasts over a million followers on Instagram and nearly the same number of subscribers on YouTube, is known for entertaining his audience with what he calls “the greatest car shenanigans.” His other stunts include filming his passengers while rapidly accelerating and taking a Lamborghini through a gas station car wash.
A spokesperson from the Department of Justice confirmed that Choi appeared in court on Thursday, and a federal magistrate judge ordered his release on a $50,000 bond. His arraignment is scheduled for July 2, and no plea was taken during the initial appearance.
The Associated Press contributed to this article.