San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall was discharged from the hospital on Sunday after being shot in the chest during an attempted robbery on Saturday in San Francisco. The team provided an update stating that Pearsall is recovering from the incident.
The 49ers initially reported that Pearsall was in serious but stable condition after suffering a gunshot wound to his chest, but he was able to communicate with medical staff following the shooting. Mayor London Breed confirmed that the attack occurred in the Union Square area, and police have identified a suspect as a 17-year-old male.
Breed noted that the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) responded promptly to the scene and quickly apprehended the shooter. In a private Facebook post, Erin Pearsall, Ricky’s mother, expressed gratitude that her son is in good spirits and that, despite being shot in the chest, the bullet exited from his back, avoiding vital organs.
The police received reports of a shooting around 3:37 p.m. at Geary Street and Grant Avenue. According to Police Chief Bill Scott, Pearsall, 23, was targeted in an armed robbery attempt by the suspect and was shot during a struggle. At least two shots were fired during the incident.
Both Pearsall and the suspect were hospitalized. The suspect, who fled the scene, was apprehended with the firearm believed to have been used in the shooting. The District Attorney’s office announced that the teen will face charges in juvenile court.
Breed described the incident as a tragic and unusual occurrence for the Union Square area and expressed her hopes for Pearsall’s recovery and return to football. The 49ers echoed these sentiments, offering their support to Pearsall and his family.
The shooting has raised concerns about crime and homelessness in San Francisco, with local political figures debating how to address these ongoing issues. Mayor Breed reiterated that such violence is unacceptable and stated that additional police presence has been deployed in Union Square.
Pearsall has not participated in the preseason due to previous injuries to his hamstring and shoulder.