Robber shoots San Francisco 49ers player Ricky Pearsall, police say

(FOX40.COM) — San Francisco 49ers player Ricky Pearsall was shot near Union Square on Saturday during a robbery gone bad, according to the San Francisco Police Department.

The robbery reportedly happened as Pearsall, the team’s first-round draft pick this year, was headed to a signing on Geary and Market Street. Police said Pearsall struggled for the gun and both he and the suspect were shot.

It was initially believed that Pearsall was shot in the arm, but reports further clarified that he was shot in the chest. According to SFPD, he is in stable condition.

Pearsall’s mother, Erin Pearsall, gave praise to God for her son’s survival.

“First and far most I want to thank GOD for protecting my baby boy,” Erin Pearsall said in a statement. “He was shot in the chest and it exited out his back. Thanks to God it missed his vital organs.”

She added, “My son was spared today by the Grace of God. Please pray for my baby.”

San Francisco mayor London Breed said SFPD was “on the scene immediately” and an arrest of the shooter was made. The suspect was identified by law enforcement as a17-year-old boy resident of Tracy. His condition was not immediately disclosed.

“My thoughts are with Ricky and his family at this time,” Breed said.

The San Francisco 49ers also weighed on the shooting.

“San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall was the victim of an attempted robbery and shooting this afternoon,” the 49ers organization said in a statement. “He sustained a bullet wound to his chest and is in serious but stable condition. We ask that you please respect his privacy at this time. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ricky and the entire Pearsall family.”

On Sunday afternoon, officials said Pearsall continues to recover, but was released from the hospital.

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