Scientology Speedrunning: Teens Target Buildings in Viral Trend

The Church of Scientology has become the latest target of a viral social media trend known as “speedrunning,” in which young people attempt to enter and navigate through its buildings as quickly as possible, often posting the results online. Over the past month, incidents in Vancouver, New York, and other cities have drawn police attention, raised concerns from church officials, and prompted security measures such as the removal of door handles at some locations.

According to verified reports, the trend originated on platforms like TikTok, where users filmed themselves sprinting through Scientology buildings, sometimes in costumes or masks. Videos of these “runs” have garnered millions of views, with participants describing the challenge as a way to “unlock” or explore the church’s facilities. The church has condemned the trend, calling it trespassing and harassment, while local law enforcement has responded with increased patrols and, in some cases, arrests.

Incidents and Police Response

In Vancouver, a group of teens attempted to storm a Scientology building earlier this month. Police intervened, and the incident was described as an attempt to participate in the viral trend. While no arrests were reported in Vancouver, the church’s security team worked to prevent further breaches. The church’s Hollywood location also removed door handles from its buildings after similar incidents, restricting public entry and prompting extra patrols by local police.

In New York, a mob of teens reportedly stormed a Scientology church in Times Square, leading to an employee injury. According to TMZ, the incident occurred as part of the ongoing “speedrunning” trend, with participants forcing their way into the building. Police were called to the scene, and investigations are ongoing. The church has accused participants of trespassing and, in some cases, hate crimes, though no arrests have been confirmed in connection with these allegations.

Earlier this year, a 19-year-old man in Florida was arrested after shattering the front door of a Scientology building with a BB gun. The incident, which occurred in April 2026, was one of the first reported cases of physical damage linked to the trend. The suspect, Feliks Acar, was charged with criminal mischief and trespassing.

The Church of Scientology’s Response

The Church of Scientology has issued a strong response to the trend, calling it disruptive and harmful. In a statement, the church accused participants of trespassing, harassment, and even hate crimes, though these claims have not been independently verified in all cases. The church’s Hollywood headquarters removed door handles from its buildings to prevent unauthorized entry, a move that has drawn criticism from some activists who argue it violates public access rights.

The trend has led to a building in Hollywood removing its door handles and restricting public entry. The church accused participants of trespassing, harassment, and disruption of religious facilities.

NBC News, April 30, 2026

The church’s concerns extend beyond security. Officials have warned that the trend could escalate into more serious incidents, including vandalism or physical altercations. The church has also criticized social media platforms for allegedly enabling the trend by allowing videos of the incidents to go viral.

What Is Scientology?

The Church of Scientology, founded in 1953 by L. Ron Hubbard, is a controversial religious movement with an estimated 30,000 members worldwide. Its teachings include the belief that traumatic events—even from past lives—create subconscious “command-like recordings” in the mind, which can only be relieved through a process called “auditing.” The church operates through a network of autonomous organizations, all directed by its central leadership.

Scientology has long faced criticism and legal challenges, including allegations of abuse, financial exploitation, and suppression of dissent. The church has denied these claims, framing itself as a legitimate religious institution. The recent “speedrunning” incidents have reignited debates about the church’s relationship with the public and its handling of controversies.

Broader Implications

The trend has raised questions about the role of social media in encouraging real-world disruptions. While some participants describe the “speedrunning” challenge as harmless fun, others argue it reflects a broader frustration with the church’s secrecy and perceived authoritarianism. Law enforcement agencies are monitoring the situation closely, particularly as incidents spread beyond the United States to Canada and potentially other countries.

As the trend continues to evolve, the Church of Scientology is likely to face further challenges in balancing its security needs with public perception. For now, the focus remains on preventing further incidents while addressing the underlying issues that have fueled the trend.

For readers seeking more information or concerned about the safety of religious institutions, local law enforcement and community organizations remain the best resources for updates and guidance.