NFL Star's Quick Thinking Prevents Theft During Milan Winter Olympics Visit
What began as a celebratory Winter Olympics trip for power couple Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens took an alarming turn on the streets of Milan. The Chicago Bears safety found himself targeted in a brazen daylight robbery attempt that he successfully thwarted through preparedness and quick reflexes.
The Tense Moment on Milan Streets
Jonathan Owens took to social media platform X on Sunday to recount the frightening incident that occurred while he was out shopping in the Italian city. "Not somebody just tried to snatch my shopping bag in Milan," Owens wrote, describing how a would-be thief attempted to grab the bag directly from his hand.
The NFL player's defensive habits proved crucial in preventing the theft. "Force of habit I had it tied around my hand so he couldn't get it and took off running immediately," Owens explained, adding "but still crazy" about the unexpected confrontation.
Preparation Through Social Media Awareness
In subsequent replies to concerned fans, Owens revealed that his vigilance stemmed from prior awareness of similar incidents circulating online. "Honestly I know right, but it was no way he could get it off my hand," he wrote. "I've seen too many TikToks of that happening so I was prepared."
The attempted thief quickly realized his mistake when Owens turned around and the bag remained securely attached to the athlete's hand. Owens humorously described the would-be robber's reaction: "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."
Winter Olympics Enjoyment Interrupted
The incident occurred during what had been an exciting Winter Olympics experience for the couple. Biles and Owens had been attending various events in Milan, including the men's figure skating final on Friday featuring American skater Ilia Malinin, who was considered a gold medal favorite despite experiencing several falls during his free skate performance.
The following day, the couple attended speed skating competitions, continuing their immersion in winter sports. Simone Biles, the seven-time Olympic gold medalist in gymnastics, has been exploring winter sports competitions this year rather than her traditional summer events.
Fan Reactions and Safety Assurance
Social media responses to Owens' post expressed both shock and relief. Many fans were astonished that someone would attempt to steal from a professional athlete known for his physical prowess. Owens reassured everyone that he remained safe throughout the encounter, emphasizing that the bag never left his possession and the situation resolved quickly.
Despite the frightening interruption, the couple continued to enjoy their Milan visit. Biles was photographed sightseeing around the city on Sunday, demonstrating that the robbery attempt hadn't derailed their travel plans.
A Trip of Contrasting Experiences
The Milan journey for Biles and Owens has encompassed both the thrill of Olympic competition and the unexpected danger of urban crime. Their experience highlights how even celebrity athletes navigating foreign cities must remain aware of their surroundings and potential risks.
Owens' successful prevention of the theft serves as a reminder of the importance of situational awareness while traveling internationally, particularly in crowded tourist destinations where such incidents occasionally occur.
