NFL rookie shot during alleged robbery attempt released from hospital

(KRON) – San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall was released from the hospital Sunday afternoon after being shot during an alleged armed robbery attempt, the team announced. 

In a statement posted to X, the team said the rookie "continues to recover from a bullet wound to his chest." The 49ers went on to thank the first responders, hospital staff, and authorities who responded to the incident.

Pearsall, 23, was walking alone on Geary Boulevard in San Francisco’s Union Square area shortly after 3:30 p.m. PDT on Saturday when the suspect allegedly tried to rob him with a gun.

“A struggle between Mr. Pearsall and the suspect ensued and gunfire from the suspect’s gun struck both Mr. Pearsall and the subject,” Police Chief Bill Scott said, noting more than one shot was fired.

Pearsall suffered a bullet wound to his chest and was taken to an area hospital, authorities said. Video recorded by a witness showed Pearsall, shirtless with a large chest wound, being helped into an ambulance, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.

The wide receiver did not require surgery, a source told The Athletic. A reporter for the outlet also shared what appeared to be a post from Pearsall's mother, who wrote on Facebook that a bullet went through Pearsall's chest and exited out his back, but none of his vital organs were hit.

The suspect, a 17-year-old Tracy resident, is in custody, according to the San Francisco Police Department. He was also transported to the hospital but his condition wasn’t immediately available.

San Francisco Police said charges were pending against the minor, with District Attorney Brooke Jenkins noting “there will be accountability.” A charging decision is expected by Tuesday or Wednesday and will initially be filed in the juvenile court system.

A gun allegedly belonging to the suspect was recovered and investigators believe he acted alone, Scott said. He added that there was no indication Pearsall was targeted because he is a player for the city’s football team.

San Francisco Mayor London Breed called the shooting “a terrible and rare incident in Union Square.” Breed also express gratitude to SFPD for responding quickly to the scene. 

Pearsall was drafted in the first round in April by the 49ers with the 31st overall pick but has been slowed by injuries since joining the team. He missed time during training camp due to hamstring and shoulder issues before returning to practice this past week with a noncontact blue jersey while his shoulder heals.

Pearsall began his college career at Arizona State and transferred to Florida for his final two seasons. He had 65 catches for 965 yards and four touchdowns last season for the Gators and finished his college career with 159 catches for 2,420 yards and 14 TDs.

Addy Bink and The Associated Press contributed to this report.