A father from Huntington Beach faced an unexpected situation when a neighbor mistook him for a homeless man. The police were called while he walked his newborn daughter through their neighborhood.
Chapman Hamborg, a 33-year-old artist and father of four, lives near the beach in Huntington Beach, California. Most days, he spends time surfing, painting, or sculpting. Lately, his main focus has been caring for his newborn daughter, especially during her fussy early weeks.
To calm his baby and give his wife time to rest, Hamborg takes daily walks. He usually wears his daughter in a baby carrier and strolls around the neighborhood at all hours. This routine gives both parents some balance during newborn life. But one morning, that routine led to a surprising police visit.
That morning, Hamborg had already taken his daughter on two walks. After returning home, he began helping his wife while the kids played outside. Suddenly, his oldest son noticed a police car parked in front of their house. Confused, Hamborg approached the officer to understand what was going on.
The key phrase, mistaken identity during a morning walk, first appeared when the officer shared what led him there. A neighbor had followed Hamborg home, believing he was a homeless man with a baby. Despite his confusion, Hamborg remained calm and polite.
“I was in my own neighborhood with my own child,” Hamborg later said, still shocked by the encounter. He provided his ID to clear things up. His wife, Hannah, stepped outside to support him during the conversation.
Although the situation ended peacefully, many online users pointed out how it could have gone differently. Some noted that race or appearance could drastically change such interactions. Hamborg, dressed in his usual paint-stained clothes and slippers, said he often looks unkempt. Still, he chooses his style confidently.
He added, “I’m an artist. I dress how I feel. I’ve never been to a barber. I cut my own hair.” His appearance, while normal to him, became the reason for suspicion. The key phrase, mistaken identity during a morning walk, came up again in online discussions.
Though the neighbor never apologized, Hamborg remains hopeful. He has recognized her car and wants to speak with her in person. He doesn’t want to argue or blame her. Instead, he hopes for a friendly conversation.
“My wife said, at least our neighbors care,” he shared. He’s even considering writing a thank-you letter to turn the moment into something positive.
Ultimately, Hamborg wants to focus on connection, not conflict. He chooses to see the good, despite the misunderstanding. And he hopes others learn from this mistaken identity during a morning walk.
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