A 34‑year‑old Los Angeles man was taken into custody on Monday after police say he sprayed a fellow moviegoer with pepper spray at the Burbank AMC theater. The incident occurred during a screening on September 19, 2026 when the target patron was using a cellphone, an activity prohibited by the theater. According to authorities, the spray also caused injuries to at least two other attendees who were in the vicinity.
The theater staff reported the disturbance to law enforcement after noticing the commotion and seeing the victim clutching his face. Officers arrived shortly after and identified the suspect, who was then arrested without further incident. The Los Angeles Police Department is holding the man on charges related to the alleged assault and the use of a prohibited weapon.
Burbank AMC officials confirmed that the theater enforces a strict no‑phone policy during films and that staff members regularly remind patrons to silence devices. The policy is intended to preserve the viewing experience and reduce distractions, and violations can result in removal from the auditorium. While the department declined to disclose the exact nature of the injuries suffered by the two other attendees, medical personnel on site treated them for irritation and mild respiratory effects.
The case adds to a growing number of confrontations linked to cellphone use in darkened theaters, where patrons sometimes react strongly to perceived disruptions. Law enforcement and theater operators continue to emphasize that the use of weapons, including pepper spray, is illegal and can result in criminal prosecution. The suspect remains in custody pending further investigation and possible court proceedings.
The incident serves as a reminder of the legal and safety implications of violating theater policies, and it underscores the responsibility of both patrons and venue staff to maintain a secure environment for all moviegoers.