San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall was shot in the chest during an attempted robbery in the Union Square community in downtown San Francisco. The 23-year-old rookie was drafted by the 49ers in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft. The suspect, a 17-year-old boy, approached Pearsall and attempted armed robbery, resulting in a struggle and the firing of at least two rounds. Both Pearsall and the suspect were hospitalized following the incident. The suspect was quickly apprehended by responding officers, and the weapon used in the shooting was recovered. Pearsall’s agent, representatives for the NFL, and San Francisco police have not provided further information at this time.
Mayor London Breed expressed her shock and concern about the incident, emphasizing that violence like this would not be tolerated in the city. San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott confirmed that the suspect was a 17-year-old boy from Tracy, a farming town located east of San Francisco. The suspect will be charged in juvenile court. San Francisco County Supervisor Aaron Peskin reported that Pearsall had been stabilized at a hospital and the entire Pearsall family had their thoughts and prayers. The 49ers also expressed their support for Pearsall and his family, sending well wishes for his recovery.
The incident involving Ricky Pearsall comes at a time when crime and homelessness have become significant issues in San Francisco. Supervisor Peskin, who is challenging Mayor Breed in the upcoming election, has advocated for tough-on-crime measures and addressing the root causes of issues such as drug addiction. Mayor Breed has vowed to crack down on violence and has allocated additional police resources to Union Square following the shooting. The community has rallied around Pearsall, noting his bright future and hoping for his speedy recovery so he can return to the football field.
The San Francisco Police Department responded to a report of a shooting at Geary Street and Grant Avenue in Union Square around 3:37 p.m., where Pearsall was found with a gunshot wound to his chest. The suspect and Pearsall were both injured during the altercation, and the suspect was quickly apprehended as he attempted to flee the scene. District Attorney Brooke Jenkins stated that the suspect will face charges in juvenile court for his role in the attempted robbery and shooting. Mayor Breed sent her thoughts and support to Pearsall and his family, recognizing the seriousness of the incident and the impact on the community.
The 49ers organization expressed its solidarity with Pearsall and his family, emphasizing their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. San Francisco residents have been on edge due to the increase in violent crime in the city, prompting calls for action and a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of these issues. Mayor Breed reiterated her commitment to combating violence and supporting victims like Pearsall in their recovery process. With the suspect in custody and the weapon recovered, authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the attempted robbery that left Pearsall injured. Supporters and fans of the young athlete are hopeful for a full recovery and a return to the football field in the future.
