NFL Player Owens Narrowly Escapes Robbery Attempt in Milan

Chicago Bears safety Jonathan Owens says a would-be thief was no match for his quick reflexes.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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While attending the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan with his wife Simone Biles, Chicago Bears safety Jonathan Owens says he was nearly robbed while walking around the city. Owens says a man tried to snatch his shopping bag, but Owens had it tied around his hand and the thief was unable to get it and quickly ran off. Owens said the thief "wasn't fast at all" and he was prepared for the situation after seeing similar incidents on TikTok.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the potential risks athletes and visitors can face when traveling abroad, even during major events like the Olympics. It also showcases how professional athletes like Owens can use their quick reflexes and awareness to thwart would-be crimes.

The details

Owens says the attempted robbery occurred while he was walking around Milan during the 2026 Winter Olympics. He had his shopping bag tied around his hand, which prevented the thief from being able to snatch it. Owens said the thief "took off running immediately" after realizing he couldn't get the bag, and Owens noted the thief "wasn't fast at all" compared to the NFL player.

  • The incident occurred on Sunday, February 16, 2026 while Owens was in Milan for the 2026 Winter Olympics.

The players

Jonathan Owens

A safety for the Chicago Bears in the NFL who was nearly robbed while attending the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan with his wife Simone Biles.

Simone Biles

A seven-time Olympic gold medalist in gymnastics who was with her husband Jonathan Owens in Milan for the 2026 Winter Olympics.

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What they’re saying

“Not somebody just tried to snatch my shopping bag in Milan. force of habit i had it tied around my hand so he couldn't get it and took off running immediately....but still crazy.”

— Jonathan Owens, Chicago Bears Safety (X)

“Not fast at all bro, his arms were moving faster than his legs lol Should've seen his face once he realized i turned around and he couldn't grab it.”

— Jonathan Owens, Chicago Bears Safety (X)

“Honestly i know right, but it was no way he could get it off my hand, I've seen too many TikTok's of that happening so i was prepared.”

— Jonathan Owens, Chicago Bears Safety (X)

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder for athletes and tourists to remain vigilant when traveling, even during major events like the Olympics. Owens' quick reflexes and awareness allowed him to thwart the would-be robbery, highlighting the importance of being prepared for potential threats. The story also showcases how professional athletes can use their physical abilities to deter criminal activity.