In a shocking incident last week, a star player from the New York Jets was reportedly targeted in a brazen armed robbery while out in broad daylight.
The police have labeled the attack as “targeted” and are actively searching for a gang of thieves believed to have followed the NFL player, along with another person, for over 30 miles—from Manhattan all the way to Windmill Pond in New Jersey.
Thieves Follow Victims for Miles Before the Robbery
The robbery took place on Saturday morning when a group of unidentified men, seen exiting a dark SUV, approached the victims at Windmill Pond.
According to reports, the thieves then stole money and other personal items at gunpoint before fleeing the scene.
Authorities are now looking for leads on the suspects, who were described as a group of males with a clear plan in place.
One witness later confirmed to NBC New York that one of the victims was a player for the New York Jets, though the player’s identity remains unconfirmed.
Windmill Pond, where the robbery occurred, is located just a short drive from the Jets’ training facility, adding another layer of intrigue to the situation.
A Rising Trend of Targeted Attacks on Sports Stars
This robbery comes amid a disturbing trend of high-profile athletes being targeted by thieves.
Other sports figures who have fallen victim to similar incidents recently include NFL stars Joe Burrow, Travis Kelce, and Patrick Mahomes, as well as NBA players like Luka Doncic and Bobby Portis Jr., and even soccer star Olivier Giroud.
In fact, just a few days ago, seven individuals, reportedly part of a Chilean theft ring, were charged with stealing more than $2 million worth of valuables in a series of burglaries targeting celebrities.
It’s clear that sports stars have become frequent targets for criminal groups looking to cash in on their fame and wealth.
Investigators Ask for Help as Search Continues
As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the robbery.
Police from the Morristown Bureau responded to the 911 calls around 8:00 a.m. on February 15th, after witnesses reported the armed robbery at Windmill Pond.
Officers are currently conducting interviews with both victims and witnesses, and canvassing the area for any surveillance footage that may lead to a breakthrough.
“We believe this was an isolated incident, as it appears the victims were specifically targeted and followed from Manhattan,” a police spokesperson said in a statement.
For now, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as they continue their investigation into the incident.