Ricky Pearsall, the first-round pick of the San Francisco 49ers in the 2024 NFL Draft, was shot during an attempted robbery at San Francisco’s Union Square, according to a statement from San Francisco police. Pearsall is reportedly in stable condition and the suspect is in custody. Conflicting reports initially emerged regarding the location of the gunshot wound, but police later confirmed that it was to his chest. A video posted on social media showed Pearsall walking to the ambulance while covering the wound. The Niners released a statement confirming the incident and asking for privacy for Pearsall and his family.
Police revealed that Pearsall was shot after a struggle with a suspect who was allegedly trying to steal his Rolex watch while he was on his way to a signing event. The suspect was also shot through the chest and is currently in stable condition at the same hospital where Pearsall is being treated. San Francisco mayor London Breed and police chief William Scott issued statements reacting to the news, which comes at a time when crime in San Francisco is a contentious issue. The suspect, identified as a 17-year-old male from Tracy, Calif., is believed to have acted alone, and charges will be filed in juvenile court.
Selected as the 31st overall pick in the draft, Pearsall was added to the Niners’ already talented wide receiver room, featuring All-Pros Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel. Samuel expressed support for Pearsall on Twitter, reporting that he is “good.” Former Arizona State teammate and current Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Rachaad White also expressed shock at the incident. Pearsall had a successful college career at Arizona State and Florida, accumulating 965 receiving yards and six touchdowns in his final season with the Gators. Known for his route running and hands as a slot receiver, Pearsall was projected as a second-round pick but impressed the Niners enough to be chosen in the first round.
Injuries had limited Pearsall’s participation in his first NFL training camp, as he spent time on the reserve/non-football injury list with a hamstring injury and later dealt with a shoulder injury. It remains uncertain how much time he will miss due to his gunshot wound. San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott emphasized that there is no indication Pearsall was targeted because of his status as a football player, suggesting that the incident was solely an attempted robbery. The state plans to pursue charges against the suspect in juvenile court. The Niners have requested privacy for Pearsall during his recovery and are offering their thoughts and prayers to him and his family during this challenging time.
