2 charged in organizing Oakland sideshow that appeared in YouTube star IShowSpeed's livestream

Tuesday, May 12, 2026 7:12AM PT
OAKLAND, Calif. -- Two men are facing misdemeanor charges for allegedly organizing a 2025 sideshow that took over West Grand Avenue in Oakland and coincided with a visit by internet celebrity IShowSpeed.

Alameda County District Attorney Ursula Jones Dickson announced Monday that the two men have been charged with organizing and facilitating a sideshow and with aiding and abetting a speed contest.

Both allegedly organized the sideshow during IShowSpeed's visit to Oakland on Nov. 25.

RELATED: Massive crowds surrounded YouTube star IShowSpeed as he toured San Francisco
Massive crowds surround YouTube star IShowSpeed as he tours San Francisco


The YouTube sensation, who has nearly 54 million followers on that platform, stopped by Hyphy Burger on West Grand near Market Street in West Oakland as part of his well-publicized and live-streamed "Speed Does America" tour.



While he was at the restaurant, hundreds of people showed up trying to capture his attention, which prompted IShowSpeed and his team to get onto the rooftop in an effort to escape a swarm of boisterous fans.

The intersection near the restaurant was soon filled with fireworks, lowrider cars and fans shouting "Speed!"

Several cars eventually began doing donuts at the intersection, with people chasing after them. IShowSpeed was visibly bewildered by the sideshow.

MORE: Video shows attempted Bay Bridge takeover as 3 Bay Area agencies team up to crack down on sideshows

"Why are they running to the car ... are they stupid?" he said. "I can't watch this."



The sideshow prompted him to leave, which was another difficult task in itself. IShowSpeed wiggled his way out of the restaurant between hordes of fans begging for a photo with him.

"Sideshows are not harmless gatherings," Jones Dickson said in a news release Monday. "These illegal events routinely cause vandalism, reckless driving, injuries, property damage, and pose significant threats to public safety. Individuals who organize, promote, and facilitate these activities will be held accountable."

The two men are scheduled to appear for arraignment on May 27 at the Wiley Manuel Courthouse in Oakland.

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