A teenager has been arrested for the shooting of 49ers rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall following the shocking events that played out this past Saturday.
The former Florida pass-catcher was shot in a robbery attempt in the Union Square area, with his assailant understood to have been after his Rolex watch.
The Niners posted a statement on social media noting the player was in “serious but stable condition.” His mother has since provided an update, revealing Pearsall was recovering well and in good spirits.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter has revealed this Sunday morning that the suspect in custody is a 17-year-old male.
“The suspect in Saturday’s shooting of Ricky Pearsall, a 17-year old male from Tracy, Calif., has been arrested, according to San Francisco Police Chief William Scott,” the NFL insider reported.
The suspect in Saturday’s shooting of Ricky Pearsall, a 17-year old male from Tracy, Calif., has been arrested, according to San Francisco Police Chief William Scott. https://t.co/A2gv6wVU0F
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 1, 2024
The San Francisco Fire Department said a 911 call came in at 3:38 PM after shots were fired at the corner of Geary and Grant streets, a block from Union Square. The police arrived shortly after.
Ricky Pearsall Wasn’t Targeted Because He Was An NFL Player
The player, who was shot in the chest after a gun went off during a struggle between him and his assailant, was signing autographs for fans at an event at the time of the incident.
The would-be robber was also injured in the struggle, and they were both taken to hospital.
49ers first-round pick Ricky Pearsall walking to the ambulance after being shot today during an attempted robbery in San Francisco.
📹 @ZakSNews of @KTVU pic.twitter.com/BlwnENgBLK
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 1, 2024
“Scott said Saturday night that there was “no indication” that the suspect had targeted Pearsall because he is a professional football player and added that there was one gun involved with multiple shots fired during the attempted robbery,” ESPN’s Nick Wagner added. “Scott said that the suspect was acting alone “as far as we know” but said that the many surveillance cameras in the area would be checked as the investigation continues.”
District Attorney Brooke Jenkins has revealed that a decision on the charges will be made by Wednesday, given that the suspect is a juvenile.