San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall is currently in serious but stable condition, as confirmed by the team. The incident took place when a 17-year-old suspect attempted to rob Pearsall at gunpoint on a San Francisco street. The altercation occurred at approximately 3:30 p.m. PT while Pearsall was walking alone. During the struggle, the suspect’s gun discharged multiple times, striking both Pearsall and the assailant. The San Francisco Police Department released a statement confirming the details.
Police Chief William Scott addressed the public during a press conference, providing additional information on the incident. He stated that the suspect, a resident of Tracy, California, was apprehended after attempting to flee the scene. Despite efforts to escape, the suspect was captured and taken into police custody. Chief Scott mentioned that the charges against the suspect would be filed in juvenile court, with a formal decision on the charges expected by Tuesday or Wednesday. San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins confirmed this timeline and emphasized that the case is still under investigation, with the potential for additional evidence to influence the legal process.
Both Pearsall and the suspect received medical attention at the scene before being transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment. The police have not yet disclosed a motive for the shooting, though they have ruled out any direct connection to Pearsall’s status as a professional football player. Chief Scott assured the public that the incident appears to have been an attempted robbery, and there is no indication that Pearsall was specifically targeted. He also confirmed that the suspect acted alone and that only one firearm was involved in the crime. The weapon has been recovered as part of the ongoing investigation.
Despite being seriously injured, Pearsall was able to provide some information to the police. However, Chief Scott noted that further confirmation is required to clarify certain details. It remains unclear how many times Pearsall was shot or what the suspect intended to steal. The police are currently reviewing video footage from the area to piece together a more complete understanding of the event.
In a show of solidarity, the San Francisco 49ers issued a statement expressing their support for Pearsall and his family. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Ricky and the entire Pearsall family,” the team said. San Francisco Mayor London Breed also commented on the situation during the press conference, describing the attempted robbery as a “terrible and rare incident in Union Square.” She expressed her hope for Pearsall’s full recovery and return to the field.
The news of the shooting shocked the community, including Pearsall’s teammates and fans. Deebo Samuel, a fellow wide receiver for the 49ers, took to social media to share his relief that Pearsall was in stable condition. “He’s good,” Samuel posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. “Thank God!!!!”
Before this tragic incident, Pearsall was recovering from a partial dislocation of his shoulder, an injury he sustained during his college football career. He was drafted by the 49ers with the 31st pick in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft after a successful collegiate career that included three years at Arizona State University and two at the University of Florida. In his final season at Florida, Pearsall recorded 965 receiving yards and six touchdowns.
Pearsall had recently returned to practice after being sidelined due to his shoulder injury and was preparing for the 49ers’ upcoming season. The team’s first game is scheduled against the New York Jets on September 9.
The San Francisco Police Department has increased its presence in Union Square to reassure the public following the incident. Chief Scott acknowledged that events like this can cause anxiety among residents and visitors, and he emphasized the importance of maintaining a visible police presence in the area. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and the police are committed to ensuring that justice is served in this case.
The situation remains fluid, with the police continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses. As more information becomes available, updates will be provided by both the San Francisco Police Department and the 49ers organization. The entire sports community is rallying around Ricky Pearsall, hoping for his swift recovery and eventual return to the football field.
