In a residential area in Queens, a thrilling and dangerous “street racing show” occurred recently, where a group of people gathered late at night at the intersection of Maspeth and Middle Village, igniting fire circles and performing car stunts like donuts, much to the dismay of the community. Local city council members have demanded the swift arrest of those involved, emphasizing that such “trashy behaviors” will not be tolerated.
The incident took place around 2 a.m. on Saturday, April 18, at the intersection of 69th Street and Eliot Avenue. Video footage provided by Councilman Phil Wong’s office shows individuals lighting a large fire circle in the middle of the road, with multiple cars swirling around the fire circle at high speeds, performing dangerous maneuvers, creating a chaotic and incredibly risky scene.
The video depicts dozens of onlookers parking their vehicles around the area to watch, some even entering the fire circle to take photos, putting themselves in close proximity to the fast-moving vehicles, resulting in extremely perilous situations. One of the cars involved in the performance even displayed a Palestinian flag out of its window while driving.
The vicinity of the incident has two gas stations, further exacerbating the safety hazards. The police stated that officers from the 104th precinct quickly arrived at the scene, but the vehicles involved scattered and fled the scene. Amid the chaos, three individuals jumped onto a police car’s hood, smashing the windshield, before escaping in a car with accomplices.
Councilman Wong expressed his outrage over the event and demanded that the police investigate and apprehend all those involved. He stated, “I have been assured by the police that arrests will be made, and I will ensure that they follow through on their promise. This kind of incident cannot be allowed to happen again.”
Councilman Wong pointed out that his office received numerous complaints from residents, showing deep concerns about the safety of the community. He mentioned that the police will increase patrols, deploy more officers, including the use of drones and helicopters, to prevent similar chaotic situations from occurring again.
Some residents took to the internet to criticize the lawlessness that unfolded in what was once a quiet and safe community, expressing disbelief at such reckless behavior.
The police are urging anyone with information to provide tips by calling the Crime Stoppers hotline at 800-577-8477 or by submitting information through online platforms and the NYPD’s X account, emphasizing that all information will be handled with strict confidentiality.