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Bears Safety Owens Victim of Attempted Robbery

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, February 16th 2026 at 12:35 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, CHINA

Chicago, IL - February 16th, 2026 - Chicago Bears safety Jonathan Owens revealed today he was the victim of an attempted robbery shortly after signing with the team. The incident, which occurred outside a retail store, has reignited conversations surrounding public safety in Chicago and the vulnerability of high-profile individuals, particularly athletes, in urban environments.

Owens, a recent acquisition from the Houston Texans, described being approached by two individuals who made an attempt to steal his personal property - specifically, a chain he was wearing. Speaking to CBS News earlier today, Owens recounted the harrowing experience. "I was walking out the store, and they tried to steal my chain," he stated. "I ran. I got away. I'm okay."

The fact that Owens managed to escape unharmed is undoubtedly a relief, but the incident has clearly left a lasting impact. "It's crazy," he added, expressing the unsettling feeling of unpredictability. "You just never know what's going to happen."

While details remain scarce as the Chicago Police Department continues its investigation, the attempted robbery has rapidly gained traction, sparking a wider discussion about the city's crime rates and the measures being taken to ensure public safety. Chicago, like many major metropolitan areas, has struggled with issues related to property crime and, more seriously, violent crime in recent years. The city has seen fluctuating crime statistics, with periods of decline followed by concerning spikes, often concentrated in specific neighborhoods.

The timing of the incident, so soon after Owens' arrival in Chicago, is particularly noteworthy. New athletes joining a team often face a learning curve adjusting to a new city, and this event adds an unwelcome layer of anxiety. The Bears organization has yet to release an official statement, but sources within the team suggest they are providing support to Owens and cooperating fully with the police investigation.

This isn't an isolated incident involving athletes and attempted theft. In 2024, several members of the visiting Milwaukee Brewers baseball team were targeted in a similar incident while dining in downtown Chicago. Furthermore, reports of carjackings and robberies targeting individuals perceived to be wealthy or high-profile have been on the rise nationally. This pattern suggests a concerning trend that requires a multi-faceted approach.

Experts suggest several contributing factors to the increase in these types of crimes. Economic hardship, exacerbated by the ongoing fluctuations in the global market and rising inflation, is often cited as a driver. Additionally, the availability of firearms and the prevalence of organized crime networks contribute to the problem. Some criminologists also point to the impact of social media, where public displays of wealth can inadvertently attract unwanted attention.

The Chicago Police Department, under the leadership of Superintendent Maria Rodriguez, has implemented several initiatives aimed at curbing crime, including increased foot patrols in high-crime areas, the deployment of advanced surveillance technology, and a focus on community policing. However, critics argue that these efforts are insufficient and that more comprehensive strategies are needed to address the root causes of crime.

Beyond immediate law enforcement responses, many advocate for long-term investments in social programs, such as job training, affordable housing, and mental health services. These initiatives, they argue, can help create more equitable communities and reduce the factors that contribute to criminal behavior. The city council is currently debating a proposal to allocate additional funding to these programs, but the proposal faces opposition from some who argue that the funds would be better spent on increasing police presence.

As of this writing, no arrests have been made in connection with the attempted robbery of Jonathan Owens. The investigation is ongoing, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Chicago and the importance of prioritizing public safety and community well-being.