LOS ANGELES, Jan 18 (Reuters) - Social media influencer Alex Choi sprang into action when a wildfire broke out in the Los Angeles neighborhood of Pacific Palisades. Armed with his camera and dirt bike, he ventured out to document the unfolding destruction.
His video, showcasing blazing homes, swirling embers, and a senior citizen bravely using a garden hose to defend his property, has amassed nearly 673 million views on Snapchat.
"I love documenting situations like this," expressed the 25-year-old Choi.
Choi initially gained fame on the internet for his automotive stunts, like a controversial YouTube video featuring a helicopter shooting fireworks at a Lamborghini, resulting in a run-in with law enforcement last year.
Now, he aims to focus on reporting news events for audiences who consume world happenings through vertical videos on social platforms.
According to Pew Research, social media channels such as Snapchat are vital for how young adults access news. The organization notes that approximately one-third of U.S. adults regularly receive news through Facebook and YouTube, with Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat also playing significant roles in informing particularly younger demographics.
With over 443 million daily active users, Snapchat primarily attracts individuals aged 13 to 24. During the wildfires, several personalities, including Paris Hilton, Spencer Pratt, and Heidi Montag, turned to Snapchat to share their experiences.
Navigating the fire-stricken areas on his dirt bike, Choi managed to reach challenging spots like Will Rogers State Park. He observed that nearly every home in the vicinity was ablaze, except for the one courageously defended by the elderly man with a hose, whom Choi tried to persuade to evacuate without success.
"I returned around 7 a.m. the following morning, and his house was the sole one standing in Will Rogers," narrated Choi.
Considering Snapchat's young user base, Choi ensured his footage was suitable for a teenage audience. "I make sure that all my content is not too distressing for a 13- or 14-year-old to watch," he explained, "while still providing impactful news for younger viewers accustomed to consuming everything on their phones."