San Francisco 49ers rookie Ricky Pearsall was shot during an attempted robbery in San Francisco on Saturday afternoon, according to the San Francisco Police Department.
The 49ers reported that Pearsall is in "serious but stable condition" after being shot in the chest. A 17-year-old suspect from Tracy, California, located about 60 miles east of San Francisco, has been taken into custody, police said.
The incident took place in San Francisco's Union Square. During a news conference on Saturday night, SFPD Chief William Scott detailed that Pearsall was alone when the suspect approached him. A physical altercation erupted during the attempted robbery, resulting in both Pearsall and the suspect being shot.
Chief Scott noted that multiple shots were fired but did not specify how many times each individual was hit. Both Pearsall and the suspect were taken to a local hospital and are currently in stable condition. The suspect's gun was recovered at the scene.
Scott clarified that there is no evidence suggesting Pearsall was targeted because of his NFL career. Authorities believe the suspect acted alone, but they are reviewing surveillance footage from Union Square as part of their investigation.
Scott mentioned that Pearsall has been cooperative and is conscious, which is encouraging. There are still details to confirm as the investigation continues.
Additionally, the SFPD has provided security at General Hospital where Pearsall is being treated. A group of 49ers officials, including General Manager John Lynch and various medical and security personnel, arrived in San Francisco on Saturday afternoon to support Pearsall.
"We have officers here right now," Scott said. "It’s an active investigation, and we want to ensure he receives everything he needs."
San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins stated that a decision on charges is expected by Tuesday or Wednesday. Given that the suspect is 17, charges will be filed in juvenile court.
San Francisco Mayor London Breed expressed confidence in the district attorney’s ability to prosecute the case, emphasizing that the city does not tolerate robbery or violence.
"Statistics become irrelevant in the face of such incidents. What truly matters is supporting the victim and ensuring that those who break the law and jeopardize others are held accountable."
Pearsall, 23, was selected as the No. 31 pick in this year’s NFL Draft. He spent three seasons at Arizona State before transferring to Florida for his final two years of college.
Following the shooting, Pearsall’s 49ers teammate Deebo Samuel tweeted, “He’s good. Thank God!!!!”
In 2017, 49ers linebackers Reuben Foster and Ray-Ray Armstrong narrowly avoided an armed robbery attempt outside a San Francisco nightclub on the 300 block of Post Street, just a few blocks from where Pearsall was shot. The incident occurred around 2 a.m.
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