Ricky Pearsall: After shooting, 49ers receiver yearns for a happy life

Ricky Pearsall Reveals Details of the Shot in San Francisco

San Francisco 49ers receiver Ricky Pearsall shared details about the shooting he suffered last year near Union Square in San Francisco. Pearsall expressed that he was unsure of his fate after being shot in the chest during an armed robbery.

My adrenaline surged. I didn’t really feel much pain. It was more like a burning sensation.

Ricky Pearsall

Pearsall, who is Christian, recounted that he thought of his family and wondered if he would see them again. The incident occurred on August 31, 2024. Pearsall, upon opening the rear door of his car, saw someone approaching. He initially thought it was a fan, but then realized the person was dressed in black and had a weapon.

After a struggle, the suspect shot Pearsall in the chest and fled. The attacker, 17 years old at the time, was arrested shortly after. Pearsall described the scene, mentioning the arrival of Sergeant Joelle Harrell, of the San Francisco Police Department, who assisted him.

I felt a sense of relief when I saw Joelle.

Ricky Pearsall

A witness recorded a video of Pearsall walking towards the stretcher, a moment he now recalls with humor.

The doctors transported Pearsall to San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, where he was reported to be in stable condition. Fifty days after the shooting, Pearsall debuted with the 49ers in Week 7, achieving three receptions for 21 yards. He finished his rookie season with 31 receptions, 400 yards, and three touchdowns. Physical and mental recovery was a challenge.

The pain wasn’t relevant to me. It was more the mental battle, post-traumatic stress disorder is real.

Ricky Pearsall

In the current season, Pearsall has participated in six games, accumulating 23 receptions for 333 yards. He missed six games due to a knee injury, but returned two weeks ago in the victory against the Arizona Cardinals. Pearsall constantly works to overcome his post-traumatic stress.

I want to live a happy life. I am here. I am alive. There are many good people around me. I shouldn’t worry about certain things, preventing me from enjoying the moments.

Ricky Pearsall