Police arrest suspect accused of assaulting man during street racing chaos

Officials say Aki Newman attacked the victim on Bustleton Avenue while vehicles were doing donuts and racing.

Saturday, June 10, 2023
Suspect accused of assaulting man during street racing chaos arrested
Officials say Aki Newman attacked a man on Bustleton Avenue while vehicles were doing donuts and racing.

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Philadelphia police are moving forward with tracking down more people connected to the chaotic street races from over the weekend.

On Friday, police announced the arrest of 21-year-old Aki Newman, of New Castle County, Delaware.

He is facing charges for an assault that occurred during the illegal meetups early Sunday morning.

Aki J. Newman

Officials say Newman attacked a man on Bustleton Avenue while vehicles were doing donuts and racing.

Law enforcement responded to several scenes on Sunday morning across the city, including one on I-95 near Penn's Landing where a trooper shot and killed 18-year-old Anthony Allegrini Jr.

SEE ALSO: Family of teen fatally shot by police during street racing chaos calls for transparent investigation

When troopers arrived, police say Allegrini took off, striking two troopers. One of the troopers opened fire, fatally striking Allegrini.

Allegrini's family says the teen was only a spectator in the event.

The family has called for a transparent investigation as state police continue to investigate the incident.

SEE ALSO: Philadelphia officials propose $2K fine for street racing after deadly weekend chaos

Meanwhile, Philadelphia City Council proposed new action this week to crack down on the illegal street racing in the city.

Councilmember Mike Driscoll introduced legislation that would fine a driver $2,000 if they are caught drifting, doing doughnuts, or spin-outs. Drivers could also lose their vehicles.

"We're going to send a strong message that we will take your vehicle. This is illegal behavior, you're creating a nuisance. It's not fair," said Driscoll.

Philadelphia police have vowed to track down as many individuals as possible who were involved in the lawlessness. They are combing through videos, like one that captured the assault allegedly involving Newman, to aid their investigation.