The San Francisco theater community is reeling after Nick Olivero, co-founder and executive director of Boxcar Theatre, resigned following explosive allegations of attempting to meet a minor for sexual purposes.

A social media vigilante group called People v. Preds posted a video purportedly showing Olivero being confronted in a San Diego grocery store parking lot. The video, part of a series of online “predator catching” content, claims Olivero was attempting to meet a 14-year-old boy through the dating app Grindr.

Olivero, known for creating the immersive theater production “The Speakeasy,” had already been under scrutiny following a Chronicle investigative piece in April 2024 detailing allegations of workplace misconduct. Performers previously complained about harassment and inappropriate interactions during productions.

The Boxcar Theatre board became aware of the video last week and was preparing to initiate Olivero’s removal. In a statement, the theater expressed being “shocked and appalled” by the allegations. Managing Director Stefani Pelletier and Executive Producer Laura Drake Chambers will now assume leadership roles.

It remains unclear whether law enforcement will pursue criminal charges. Legal experts note that vigilante-captured evidence can be challenging to prosecute, with potential complications around entrapment.

This incident adds another layer of complexity to Olivero’s already controversial professional history. Local actor Ezra Reaves, who was previously critical of Olivero’s leadership, commented that despite ongoing concerns, Olivero had previously avoided significant professional consequences.

Boxcar Theatre has suspended its planned Halloween production at the historic Haas-Lilienthal House and is currently focusing on magic shows at the Palace Theater in North Beach.

As the situation continues to develop, the San Francisco theater community is left processing the sudden departure of a once-prominent artistic leader.