San Francisco 49ers rookie Ricky Pearsall has been released from the hospital after being shot in an attempted robbery in Union Square on Saturday. The 23-year-old wide receiver suffered a bullet wound to his chest but is said to be “extremely lucky” to be alive, according to statements from his mother and the 49ers organization.
Pearsall was discharged from Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital on Sunday afternoon as he continues to recover. The 49ers expressed gratitude to the San Francisco Police Department, emergency medical services, and hospital staff for their assistance following the incident.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, Pearsall’s mother, Erin, thanked God for her son’s survival, noting that the bullet exited his back and fortunately missed vital organs. The shooting occurred shortly before 4 p.m. when police responded to reports of two individuals injured. It appears that Pearsall was targeted for his Rolex watch during a physical altercation with a 17-year-old suspect from Tracy, California.
Authorities have confirmed the suspect is in custody, and charges are expected to be filed soon. San Francisco Police Chief William Scott emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, stating that the level of violence witnessed in this incident is unacceptable.
San Francisco Mayor London Breed called the event “terrible and rare.” Pearsall, who was dealing with a shoulder injury prior to this incident, is reportedly in good spirits as he recovers, with his mother urging compassion among friends and family during this difficult time.