MLB Umpire Chases Teen Following Phone Theft

Earlier this month, an MLB umpire found himself chasing a teenager down a street in Philadelphia after the teen allegedly stole his cell phone, resulting in an altercation.

Authorities identified the umpire as Brock Barrow, who has been officiating in the MLB since 2022, according to a police spokesperson.

Police shared that Barrow was approached from behind around 7 p.m. on April 9 in the 1600 block of Walnut Street. The suspect, described as a dark-skinned teenage male dressed in a light blue sweatshirt and black pants, snatched Barrow’s phone while he was giving him instructions and fled.

Lt. Jason Smith explained to reporters, “The suspect came up and took the phone right from his hand, and a chase ensued, leading to a confrontation near No. 16 and Walnut.”

During the chase, as Barrow attempted to retrieve his phone, the teen allegedly punched him multiple times. Surveillance footage reviewed by investigators confirms Barrow was struck repeatedly.

Eventually, the two fell to the ground. In the process, Barrow struck his head, and the attacker continued to hit him. Despite the confrontation, the suspect fled the scene without the stolen phone, which was later returned to Barrow by a passerby.

Fortunately, Barrow’s injuries were reported to be minor, according to police. He was in Philadelphia for a series involving the Phillies and the Arizona Diamondbacks, serving as the first base umpire the night following the incident and later working behind home plate.

Interestingly, police noted that the same suspect was involved in an earlier theft at a nearby 7-Eleven about 30 minutes before the incident with Barrow. In that case, after stealing several items, the suspect punched a store employee before escaping.

Authorities are urging anyone who might have information about this series of events to contact their Central Criminal Division.