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Arrest Made in Fiery Queens Car Takeover With Seven Still Sought

Police signal a broader push to curb social-media takeovers with more arrests expected.

Overview

  • The NYPD arrested Asil Assaidi, 22, after Saturday's late-night takeover at Eliot Avenue and 69th Street in Maspeth, where cars did donuts around a ring of fire near two gas stations.
  • Police charged the Bronx resident with reckless endangerment, riot, criminal mischief, unlawful assembly, reckless driving, aggravated unlicensed operation, and driving without insurance.
  • Detectives say they identified participants by reviewing surveillance footage, bystander videos, and social media posts.
  • Police seized two cars tied to the meetup, and seven people connected to the event are still being sought after images were released.
  • A Queens judge ordered Assaidi to return to court on May 14, and officials said the top charge could carry a sentence of up to seven years.