Key Highlights
- Twitch faces backlash after popular streamer Emiru reports being assaulted at TwitchCon 2024.
- The incident highlights concerns about safety protocols during in-person events, particularly meet-and-greets.
- Multiple female streamers had canceled or skipped this year’s TwitchCon due to security fears.
- Twitch’s response is criticized as inadequate by Emiru and other affected streamers.
The Incident at TwitchCon 2024
On Friday, October 19, 2025, cosplayer Emily-Beth Schunk, known online as Emiru, reported being assaulted during the first day of Twitch’s annual convention, TwitchCon 2024. Held in San Diego, the incident sparked a wave of backlash against the platform’s safety measures.
According to Emiru, a man approached her at a meet-and-greet and attempted to kiss her despite her attempts to push him away. Her personal security guard intervened quickly, but Emiru alleged that multiple TwitchCon security staff members failed to react appropriately.
Security Concerns and Reactions
The assault on Emiru is part of a broader set of concerns about safety at in-person gaming events. Prior to the convention, several prominent female streamers canceled or skipped their participation due to existing security fears. Streamer QTCinderella expressed her worries, stating, “I don’t feel irrational about it.
I feel very scared.” Her sentiment was echoed by Valkyrae, who said, “it just takes one person.”
Following the incident, Twitch issued a statement saying they would increase security measures and block the assailant from future events indefinitely. However, Emiru called the response “a blatant lie,” citing her manager’s involvement in ensuring the attacker was caught hours after the assault.
Industry Context and Broader Implications
The incident at TwitchCon 2024 comes amid heightened concerns about security within the gaming community, particularly for women. Emiru’s experience is just one of many instances where female streamers face harassment, both online and in-person. According to industry experts, these incidents highlight a broader issue within the gaming space.
Twitch CEO Dan Clancy acknowledged that there is “always more work to be done” regarding trust and safety at their events. He added, “the reality is even if you do a lot in terms of security in today’s world, there are challenges that can present themselves.” This statement reflects the ongoing struggle for safer environments within the streaming industry.
Future Implications
The incident has prompted a reevaluation of safety protocols at TwitchCon and other similar events. Streamers and fans alike are calling for more robust measures to protect participants from potential harm. As Emiru plans to press charges, the outcome could set a precedent for how incidents of this nature will be handled in the future.
Industry insiders suggest that platforms like Twitch must continue to invest in comprehensive security strategies, including better training for event staff and enhanced communication channels between streamers and security teams. The incident at TwitchCon 2024 underscores the need for a more proactive approach to ensure the safety of all participants.
