San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall has been released from the hospital after being shot in the chest during an attempted robbery in San Francisco on Saturday. The team provided an update on Sunday, noting that Pearsall is recovering from the injury.
Initially reported as being in serious but stable condition, Pearsall was able to speak after the incident, according to police. Mayor London Breed stated that the attack occurred in the Union Square area of downtown, and authorities have identified the suspect as a 17-year-old boy.
Breed confirmed that the San Francisco Police Department responded promptly and apprehended the shooter. In a personal statement on Facebook, Pearsall’s mother expressed gratitude for her son’s recovery, stating that he was “extremely lucky” that the bullet missed vital organs.
Police reported that officers arrived at Geary Street and Grant Avenue at approximately 3:37 p.m., where they found two individuals injured following a confrontation. Police Chief Bill Scott explained that the suspect approached Pearsall and attempted an armed robbery, resulting in a struggle that ended with gunfire wounding both Pearsall and the suspect.
Investigators noted that at least two rounds were discharged, and officers subsequently apprehended the suspect in the vicinity while recovering the weapon used in the attack. District Attorney Brooke Jenkins announced that the teen would face charges in juvenile court.
At a news conference, Breed described the incident as “terrible and rare” and extended well wishes to Pearsall and his family, expressing optimism about his recovery. The 49ers echoed this sentiment, emphasizing their thoughts and prayers for Pearsall and his loved ones.
Public discussions around crime and homelessness in San Francisco have heightened, especially as Supervisor Aaron Peskin challenges Breed for the mayoral position. He has endorsed stringent measures against crime while advocating for solutions that address societal issues underlying criminal behavior.
In light of recent events, Breed reiterated that such violence “will not be tolerated,” while police have increased their presence in Union Square. Pearsall had not participated in the preseason due to prior hamstring and shoulder injuries.