Rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall of the San Francisco 49ers was shot in the chest during an attempted robbery in central San Francisco on Saturday afternoon, according to police officials.
He is currently in stable condition at the hospital. A juvenile suspect has been arrested in connection with the incident.
The confrontation took place around 3:30 p.m. on Geary Boulevard in the Union Square area, where Pearsall, 23, was approached by an armed assailant.
San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott described the events at a news briefing, stating that a struggle occurred during the attempted robbery, resulting in gunfire.
“A struggle between Mr. Pearsall and the suspect ensued, and gunfire from the suspect’s gun struck both Mr. Pearsall and the subject,” Scott said.
Officers in the vicinity promptly attended to Pearsall, administering emergency medical assistance, and apprehended the 17-year-old suspect from Tracy, California.
49ers first-round pick Ricky Pearsall walking to the ambulance after being shot today during an attempted robbery in San Francisco.
📹 @ZakSNews of @KTVU pic.twitter.com/BlwnENgBLK
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 1, 2024
“This kind of violence is simply unacceptable in our city and we will do everything in our power to work with District Attorney Brooke Jenkins to ensure that justice is served in this matter,” Scott affirmed.
During the briefing, Jenkins stated that her office would reach a decision on charges by the upcoming Tuesday or Wednesday, and that the initial proceedings were scheduled to take place within the juvenile court system.
The teenager sustained injuries during the altercation and was taken to San Francisco General Hospital, where Pearsall was also being treated.
Information about the suspect’s condition has not been made public.
A firearm was found at the scene, and authorities believe that the suspect acted independently.
The incident appears not to have been targeted specifically at Pearsall due to his status as a professional athlete. “There was no indication Mr. Pearsall was targeted because he is a player for the city’s football team,” Scott noted. The 49ers, in a statement, confirmed Pearsall’s serious but stable condition and requested privacy for him and his family during this time. Teammate Deebo Samuel expressed his relief on social media, stating, “He’s good. Thank god!!!!”
He’s good🤞🏾🙏🏾. Thank god!!!!
— Deebo (@19problemz) September 1, 2024
San Francisco Mayor London Breed also addressed the briefing, stressing the city’s dedication to public safety and adherence to legal protocols.
“This is how we hold people accountable in San Francisco. Robberies and any violence like this will not be tolerated in our city,” Breed declared, expressing her confidence in the district attorney’s handling of the case and her gratitude towards the first responders and hospital staff.
This afternoon, there was an attempted robbery in Union Square involving San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall and he was shot.
SFPD was on scene immediately and an arrest of the shooter was made.
My thoughts are with Ricky and his family at this time.
We will…
— London Breed (@LondonBreed) September 1, 2024
The mayor also pondered the wider consequences of such violent acts occurring in an area known for its usual tranquility.
“This was a terrible and rare incident in Union Square and our thoughts are with Ricky Pearsall and his family. He has a bright future and I look forward to seeing him recover and get back on the field,” she said.
The community and Pearsall’s supporters are optimistic about his speedy recovery and comeback to the field.
49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall is in serious but stable condition.
A statement from the team: pic.twitter.com/RceFbCcFBa
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 1, 2024
