Man arrested for pepper-spraying moviegoer over cellphone use at Burbank theater, police say
NBC Southern California
Last updated: September 19, 2026
A moviegoer in Burbank was pepper-sprayed by another patron due to cellphone use during a film. Police have arrested a suspect in connection with the incident.
The alleged assault occurred at a movie theater in Burbank.
The suspect, identified as 34-year-old Matthew Ware from Los Angeles, reportedly grew agitated by a fellow moviegoer using a cellphone during the screening.
In response to the cellphone use, Ware is accused of pepper-spraying the victim.
Law enforcement investigated the incident and subsequently arrested Ware.
The motive for the pepper-spraying is attributed to the disruption caused by the cellphone usage.
Authorities have not released further details regarding the condition of the victim or the specific movie being shown.
