Former Football Player Tackles Car Burglar in Kansas City

Syreeta Gapelu, a defensive tackle for the KC Glory women's football team, stopped a man from breaking into her car.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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A Kansas City woman named Syreeta Gapelu, who plays defensive tackle for the local women's football team KC Glory, tackled a man who was breaking into her car. Gapelu and her friend witnessed the man snatching Gapelu's book bag and trying to flee, at which point Gapelu ran after him, grabbed his hoodie, and took him to the ground.

Why it matters

Gapelu's quick action to stop the car burglar highlights the empowerment and confidence that can come from participating in sports, especially for women. Her experience as a defensive player allowed her to react instinctively to protect her property and potentially prevent further crimes in the area.

The details

Security camera footage shows the man snatching Gapelu's book bag, shutting her car door, and attempting to flee. Gapelu then ran after him, grabbed his hoodie, and tackled him to the ground. The man had also stolen jewelry, including an engagement ring, from other victims.

  • The incident occurred on March 10, 2026 as Gapelu was getting dropped off at her car after brunch.

The players

Syreeta Gapelu

A defensive tackle for the KC Glory women's football team in Kansas City, who tackled a man attempting to break into her car.

KC Glory

A women's football team based in Kansas City, Missouri.

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What they’re saying

“My first instinct was to tackle him”

— Syreeta Gapelu, Defensive Tackle, KC Glory (wbal.com)

“The loving side of her is so much more than the protector that she is”

— Ericka Davis, Gapelu's Friend (wbal.com)

What’s next

The police are investigating whether the man apprehended was involved in any other recent thefts or break-ins in the area.

The takeaway

Gapelu's actions demonstrate how participation in sports, especially for women, can empower individuals to take decisive action to protect themselves and their community. Her experience as a defensive player allowed her to react quickly and effectively to stop a crime in progress.