What really happened at TwitchCon 2025? Twitch faces outrage after Emiru assault and ‘too little, too late’ apology

San Diego — Twitch, the world’s leading live-streaming platform, is under fire once again after issuing a second public apology over its handling of the assault of popular streamer Emily Beth “Emiru” Schunk during TwitchCon 2025 in San Diego.

The apology, posted late on November 7 via the company’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, comes weeks after the disturbing incident that occurred during a public meet-and-greet session. Twitch said it “deeply regrets” failing to keep Emiru safe and announced a forthcoming donation to nonprofit groups dedicated to combating sexual harassment and violence.

However, rather than cooling tempers, the statement reignited outrage. Fans and fellow creators accused Twitch of offering “damage control” instead of meaningful reform.

The Incident at TwitchCon San Diego

According to multiple reports, the assault took place at the San Diego Convention Center in October 2025. Emiru, who boasts millions of followers on Twitch and other platforms, was attacked by an unidentified male attendee while greeting fans.

Video footage circulated online shows the man rushing toward Emiru, attempting to grab her face and kiss her before being swiftly restrained by her security team. The suspect managed to flee the venue and was not detained until several hours later.

Emiru later confirmed in a livestream that she had filed a police report, pressing both assault and harassment charges against the perpetrator. She also accused Twitch of delaying cooperation with authorities, claiming the platform initially refused to release the suspect’s identity to the San Diego Police Department until an external tip forced their hand.

Twitch’s Response Sparks Outrage

In its new statement, Twitch admitted it had failed to protect one of its creators, writing:

“Although Twitch works very hard to keep TwitchCon attendees safe, we failed to do so in this case. We deeply regret the distress we caused for Emiru, our other creators, and the community.”

Twitch also pledged a donation to nonprofits that work to prevent sexual violence, adding that more details will be shared soon.

The response has done little to appease critics. Prominent streamers have condemned the company’s security measures and lack of transparency. Many called for independent investigations and mandatory safety training for event staff before future TwitchCon events.

“This wasn’t an accident — it was a preventable failure,” wrote one streamer on X. “A donation is not enough when creators no longer feel safe attending your events.”

Emiru’s Reaction and Community Support

Emiru expressed frustration over Twitch’s slow response and lack of accountability. She alleged that her manager had repeatedly contacted Twitch for the assailant’s information out of fear for her safety, especially since she believed the attacker may live nearby.

“It took a tip from someone who recognized him at their workplace before Twitch finally shared his name with police,” she said in her October broadcast.

The streamer has since received an outpouring of support from fans and fellow creators, many urging Twitch to prioritize safety reforms, harsher event screening, and faster reporting protocols for harassment cases.

Growing Pressure on Twitch

This controversy adds to Twitch’s ongoing challenges around creator safety, harassment moderation, and event management. Following the Emiru incident, Twitch has promised a comprehensive review of its on-site security protocols and internal reporting systems.

But critics say the platform must go beyond apologies and donations to rebuild trust. As of now, Twitch has not released any timeline for concrete policy changes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who is Emiru?

Emiru, born Emily Beth Schunk, is a popular American streamer known for her gaming, cosplay, and lifestyle content on Twitch.

2. What happened at TwitchCon 2025?

During a meet-and-greet in San Diego, Emiru was assaulted by an attendee who tried to grab and kiss her.

3. How did Twitch respond?

Twitch issued two public apologies, admitted to failing to protect Emiru, and promised a donation to anti-harassment nonprofits.

4. Why are fans angry?

Many feel Twitch’s apology lacks accountability and that security protocols remain inadequate for protecting creators.

5. Has the attacker been identified?

The assailant was later detained after a public tip, but Twitch has not disclosed further details.