In a concerning law enforcement report, it has come to light that a player from the New York Jets was the victim of an armed robbery while in New Jersey this past weekend. The incident occurred on Saturday evening around 8 p.m. ET in the Windmill Pond area, where police state the victims were likely targeted after an outing in Manhattan.
According to the Morristown Department of Public Safety, witnesses observed a group of individuals exiting a dark-colored SUV and approaching another vehicle occupied by the Jets player and a companion. The suspects allegedly brandished weapons, demanding money and personal items before making their escape. Thankfully, reports indicate that no one was injured during this frightening encounter.
Authorities believe that the victims were deliberately followed from the city, emphasizing the premeditated nature of this robbery. They have qualified this incident as an “isolated event,” underscoring that it’s not representative of a wider pattern of crime. However, it’s particularly troubling against the backdrop of an alarming trend targeting professional athletes.
This occurrence highlights a growing concern, as several incidents involving thefts from athletes’ homes have surfaced recently. For instance, a group of individuals from Chile was charged in Florida federal court for orchestrating a nationwide burglary ring that has impacted various stars, including marquee NFL players like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. This network is alleged to have pilfered approximately $2 million in valuables ranging from jewelry to cash, demonstrating a disturbing level of sophistication in their criminal activities.
While there’s currently no evidence linking the Jets player’s armed robbery to this broader crime network, the pattern of these incidents has sparked unease both within the sports community and beyond. With increasing visibility and wealth comes a target on the backs of professional athletes, raising significant questions about their safety and security off the field. As this story develops, it will be important to keep an eye on efforts to bolster protection for athletes in their personal lives.