Ricky Pearsall, NFL’s San Francisco 49ers wide receiver, shot in the chest during a robbery at Union Square, condition serious

Ricky Pearsall, a wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers, was shot in the chest during an attempted robbery in central San Francisco on Saturday, according to officials. The 23-year-old athlete is reported to be in serious but stable condition.

Ricky Pearsall Shooting Incident in Union Square

The incident took place in Union Square, a well-known shopping and theater district in downtown San Francisco. Mayor London Breed confirmed the shooting in a post on the social platform X, expressing her concern: “My thoughts are with Ricky and his family at this time.”

San Fransisco 49ers and Teammates React

The 49ers issued a statement confirming Pearsall’s condition as serious but stable, urging respect for his privacy during this challenging time. The team added, “Our thoughts and prayers are with Ricky and the entire Pearsall family.” Teammate Deebo Samuel also posted on X, sharing a positive update, “He’s good. Thank god!!!!”

San Francisco Police Statement and Suspect in Custody

The San Francisco Police Department reported that Pearsall was shot while being robbed near Geary Street and Grant Avenue. The suspect, who was also injured, has been taken into custody. Both Pearsall and the suspect were transported to the hospital for treatment. Further details from the police were not immediately available, but the department emphasized their stance against such violence. Police Chief William Scott stated on X, “This kind of violence has no place in our city and will never be tolerated.”

AP

Police officers secure the area and investigate the scene of a shooting at Union Square in San Francisco, on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024. (Santiago Mejia/San Francisco Chronicle via AP)

Rickey Pearsall’s Career and Current Season

Ricky Pearsall, who was drafted by the 49ers in the first round in April as the 31st overall pick, has been dealing with injuries since joining the team. He missed part of the training camp due to hamstring and shoulder issues but recently returned to practice.

Pearsall began his college football career at Arizona State before transferring to the University of Florida, where he played for two seasons. During his final season with the Florida Gators, he recorded 65 catches for 965 yards and four touchdowns, finishing his college career with 159 catches for 2,420 yards and 14 touchdowns.

The 49ers had anticipated that Pearsall would contribute as a rookie, serving as a backup to starters Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel.

(Inputs from Agencies)