NYC Mayor Says ‘Outside Agitators’ May Have Aggravated Chaos in Union Square Riot

A giveaway event descended into chaos in Manhattan’s Union Square Park on Aug. 4 may be driven by “outside agitators,” according to New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

People run as a fireworks blow up as Members of the NYPD respond to the disruptions caused by large crowds during a "giveaway" event hosted by popular Twitch live streamer Kai Cenat in Union Square and the surrounding area in New York City on Aug. 4, 2023. Alexi J. Rosenfeld/Getty Images

A giveaway event that descended into chaos in Manhattan’s Union Square Park on Aug. 4 may have been driven by “outside agitators,” according to New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

Thousands of people, mostly young people, gathered in New York City on Aug. 4 in anticipation of getting free PlayStation 5s or gift cards from a social media personality.