49ers wide receiver shot in brazen robbery in broad daylight in downtown San Francisco

A juvenile suspect is in custody after allegedly shooting San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall in the chest during an attempted robbery in downtown San Francisco on Saturday afternoon, officials said.

Mr Pearsall, 23, is in stable condition at San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott said during a news conference on Saturday.

Shortly after 3:30 p.m., Mr. Pearsall was walking alone when a suspect attempted to rob him with a gun on Geary Boulevard in the Union Square area.

“A struggle ensued between Mr. Pearsall and the suspect, and both Mr. Pearsall and the suspect were struck by gunfire from the suspect's weapon,” said Mr. Scott, who noted that more than one shot was fired.

Officers on scene responded immediately, provided emergency medical care and arrested the suspect.

Police identified the suspect as a 17-year-old man from Tracy, California, about 63 miles east of San Francisco, who was also taken to San Francisco General. His condition was not immediately released.

A weapon believed to belong to the suspect was recovered and investigators believe he acted alone, Scott said.

“This type of violence is simply unacceptable in our city and we will do everything in our power to work with District Attorney Brooke Jenkins to ensure justice is served in this case,” Mr. Scott said.

Mr. Jenkins told reporters at the news conference that her office expects to make a decision on charges by Tuesday or Wednesday and will first file any charges in juvenile court.

Mr Scott said there was no evidence that Mr Pearsall had been targeted because he plays for the town's football team.

The 49ers previously announced in a statement that Mr Pearsall was struck by a bullet in the chest and that his condition was serious but stable.

“We ask that you please respect his privacy at this time,” the team said, adding, “Our thoughts and prayers are with Ricky and the entire Pearsall family.”

“He’s OK,” 49ers teammate Deebo Samuel posted on X. “Thank God!!!!”

Mayor London Breed expressed her confidence in the District Attorney's actions in prosecuting the case.

“This is how we hold the people of San Francisco accountable. Robberies and acts of violence like this will not be tolerated in our city,” Ms. Breed said during the press conference, thanking hospital staff, police and emergency responders, including San Francisco firefighters.

“This was a horrific and rare incident in Union Square and our thoughts are with Ricky Pearsall and his family. He has a bright future ahead of him and I look forward to seeing him back on the field,” Ms Breed said.

Mr. Pearsall was drafted 31st overall in the first round by the 49ers in April, but has been slowed by injuries since joining the team.

He missed some time of training camp due to hamstring and shoulder problems before returning to training last week in a non-contact blue jersey while his shoulder heals.

Mr. 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 for the Gators last season and finished his college career with 159 catches for 2,420 yards and 14 TDs.

The Niners had hoped that Mr. Pearsall could contribute as a rookie replacing regulars Brandon Aiyuk and Mr. Samuel.