Ja Morant, the standout player for the Memphis Grizzlies, has been identified as a victim in a series of alarming burglaries that have targeted professional athletes across the United States. Reports indicate that Morant lost about $1 million worth of jewelry and luxury items during a break-in at his home while he was away playing against the Golden State Warriors on December 20, 2024.
Morant’s burglary is part of a troubling pattern that has seen a group of Chilean nationals linked to multiple thefts involving high-profile athletes. The Memphis Grizzlies star was reportedly not the only victim; other prominent players, including Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, have also fallen prey to these criminals. These incidents typically occur during away games, when players are not present at their residences, making them easy targets.
The crime spree targeting athletes
Authorities have made several arrests in connection with these burglaries. Seven individuals, including Pablo Zuniga Cartes, Ignacio Zuniga Cartes, and Bastian Jimenez Freraut, have been apprehended, as they are believed to be part of a South American gang involved in this criminal activity. Disturbingly, some of these suspects even took selfies while robbing the homes of athletes like Mahomes and Burrow, further highlighting their brazen tactics.
Ongoing investigation and athlete reactions
The wave of burglaries has prompted the FBI to investigate this growing trend of targeting professional athletes. Investigators are focusing on a common thread: many of these robberies happen while athletes are competing in games, often away from home. In a statement, the Shelby County sheriff’s office confirmed that they are actively pursuing leads to identify those responsible for these crimes.
Reactions from athletes across various sports have varied as news of the robberies spreads. Many, including LAFC forward Olivier Giroud and NBA stars Luka Doncic and Mike Conley Jr., have reported break-ins at their homes. In response, some players are enhancing their home security measures, including hiring armed guards. Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott, for example, vowed to increase his security after his fiancée had her car broken into.
The FBI has urged athletes to be cautious about posting their locations on social media, warning that it makes them prime targets for thieves.
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