Chilean authorities have reportedly arrested three suspects allegedly involved in burglaries that targeted several athletes, including Chiefs stars Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes. The burglaries occurred between 2024 and 2025, during which the athletes lost cash and several luxury items.
Suspects accused of burglarizing Travis Kelce’s home arrested
The Chilean authorities reportedly arrested three suspects in Argentina, who were allegedly involved in the burglaries at Travis Kelce’s and Patrick Mahomes’ homes. Investigators believe the suspects are part of a larger South American burglary ring that specifically targets high-profile athletes (via New York Post).
Their arrest came shortly after they robbed retired Argentine tennis champion Juan Martín Del Potro’s residence earlier this month in Tandil. Following the incident, the Chilean authorities launched an investigation and identified five men through security footage. Investigators also used a recent traffic ticket to track down the suspects.
The authorities initially arrested Ignacio Zuñiga Cartes and Bastián Jiménez Frerau, who were reportedly wanted by the FBI. Further investigation led to the arrest of the third suspect.
According to reports, the thieves would travel to the U.S. and keep tabs on several athletes’ whereabouts. Additionally, they would study the security systems at the players’ homes. And when the athletes are away at a tournament, the thieves would break in and steal watches, jewelry, cash, and other luxury items. Over the years, they have reportedly stolen items worth more than $3.5 million.
Apart from Kelce and Mahomes, Joe Burrow and Bobby Portis were also the victims of the criminal gang. Kelce’s home was hit on October 7, 2024, during the Chiefs vs. Saints game. He reportedly lost approximately $20,000 in cash alongside valuable watches. This is similar to what Mahomes lost during the burglary.
To confirm the identities, prosecutors in the U.S. reportedly collected DNA samples from Freraut and matched them to the evidence found at the crime scene.
Chilean Interpol’s Commissioner Enrique Gutierrez said that they will extradite the suspects. “These individuals will face justice in the United States or Argentina,” he said (via BBC).
