San Francisco 49ers player tragically shot in attempted robbery

San Francisco 49ers rookie Ricky Pearsall has been released from hospital, following an attempted robbery gone wrong, with the former Florida Gator suffering a bullet wound to the chest, per CBS News.

The rookie wide receiver was reportedly walking close to Union Square in San Francisco when an armed suspect approached him, following a physical altercation, Pearsall was shot in the chest, with the 17-year-old suspect also wounded.

The incident was described by the San Francisco police chief here, “the struggle between Mr. Pearsall and the suspect ensued, and gunfire from the suspect's gun struck both Mr. Pearsall and the subject,” with reports suggesting Pearsall attempted to fight off the suspect.

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Both Pearsall and the suspect were rushed to San Francisco General, where they were treated. Pearsall’s condition was initially described as “fair” by The Guardian.

The 49ers released a statement shortly after the incident describing their wide receiver’s condition as “serious but stable,” adding, “Our thoughts and prayers are with Ricky and the entire Pearsall family,” at the end of their update.

Erin Pearsall, Ricky’s mother, posted her own update on Facebook, writing, “he [Ricky] is extremely lucky, GOD shielded him. He was shot in the chest and it exited out his back.” She also claimed the bullet missed any vital organs.

San Francisco’s mayor, London Breed, told media, “This is how we hold people accountable in San Francisco. Robberies and any violence like this will not be tolerated in our city,” during a press briefing, per The Guardian.

Mayor Breed added, “This was a terrible and rare incident in Union Square and our thoughts are with Ricky Pearsall and his family. He has a bright future and I look forward to seeing him recover and get back on the field.”

Pearsall has already missed some time this Summer during the 49ers’ training camp with hamstring and shoulder problems, but the team was hopeful he would have been healthy and contributing early in his rookie season. Currently, there are no reports of his expected return.

Pearsall, who spent time at both Arizona State and Florida during his college career, was drafted with the 31st pick of the 2024 NFL Draft, with the Niners hoping he would be a long-term replacement for either Deebo Samuel or Brandon Aiyuk in their high-flying offense. We wish him the best as he recovers.

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