A 19-year-old Texan, Alford Lewis, has confessed to engaging in unprovoked attacks on unsuspecting people in a local park to gain attention on social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok. The shocking incidents, captured on video, have prompted an investigation by the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
The disturbing video shows Lewis assaulting at least two individuals in Wortham Park in Houston, with victims appearing stunned and not fighting back during the attacks. Outraged and concerned parkgoers shared the video on social media and platforms like Nextdoor, a neighborhood watch app.
Following the online outrage and law enforcement’s involvement, Lewis was tracked down and confronted outside his residence. He admitted his actions, characterizing them as a “mistake” and suggesting that “everybody makes mistakes.”
Lewis confessed that he resorted to these assaults to garner likes and views on his YouTube and TikTok channels. He expressed surprise at how things escalated, stating, “I really didn’t expect for it to go so left.” He emphasized that the video only captures the “bad part” of his actions and claimed he shook the victims’ hands and gave one of them a hug afterward.
The incidents have highlighted a concerning trend among youth seeking online fame by participating in harmful challenges and stunts. Lewis urged others not to engage in such behavior and advised that if someone is contemplating something similar for clout, they should reconsider and seek alternatives.
While the investigation continues, it remains uncertain whether any of the victims have pressed charges against Lewis for the attacks. Lewis’s actions, along with similar incidents linked to social media challenges, underscore the need for responsible and safe online behavior, especially among younger individuals.