'Serious but stable': San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall shot in robbery attempt

Ricky Pearsall, a wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers, was shot in the chest during an attempted robbery in the Union Square area of downtown San Francisco on Saturday. Pearsall, 23, is now in serious but stable condition. The suspect involved in the incident is in custody and also received medical attention.
San Francisco Mayor London Breed confirmed the shooting on social media."My thoughts are with Ricky and his family at this time," Breed wrote on X. The attack happened near Geary Street and Grant Avenue, an area known for its high foot traffic.

According to the San Francisco police, Pearsall was attacked while being robbed. Both Pearsall and the suspect were injured during the altercation and transported to a local hospital. San Francisco Police Chief William Scott made a statement on social media, saying, "This kind of violence has no place in our city and will never be tolerated."

The 49ers provided an update on Pearsall's condition, revealing that he sustained a gunshot wound to the chest. "We ask that you please respect his privacy at this time," AP quoted the team’s statement. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Ricky and the entire Pearsall family."

Teammate Deebo Samuel also expressed relief on social media. "He's good. Thank God!!!!" Samuel wrote on X.

Pearsall was the 49ers' first-round pick in the NFL Draft this past April, chosen 31st overall. Despite dealing with hamstring and shoulder injuries since joining the team, he had recently returned to practice, wearing a noncontact jersey as he recovered from his shoulder injury.
Pearsall's college career began at Arizona State University before he transferred to the University of Florida for his final two seasons. Last year, he had an impressive season with the Florida Gators, with 65 catches for 965 yards and four touchdowns. He concluded his college career with 159 receptions for 2,420 yards and 14 touchdowns.
The 49ers had high expectations for Pearsall's contributions as a rookie, especially as a backup to starters Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel. The team and fans are now closely following updates on his recovery following this unexpected and violent incident.