The San Francisco Police Department played a critical role in the moments following the shooting of Ricky Pearsall, a rookie wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers. Pearsall was shot in the chest during an attempted robbery by a 17-year-old in San Francisco on Saturday.
Sgt. Joelle Harrell, who was nearby when the incident occurred, sprang into action upon hearing gunshots. She found Pearsall shirtless and covered in blood and immediately began applying pressure to his wound. Harrell instructed another officer to call an ambulance and used her hands and cap to prevent air from entering Pearsall’s wound.
In addition to providing medical assistance, Harrell also comforted Pearsall by asking him questions about the shooter and reassuring him. Pearsall, in a moment of vulnerability, asked Harrell if he was going to die. The two prayed together until ambulances arrived at the scene.
The suspect targeted Pearsall after noticing the expensive watch he was wearing as he walked back to his Tesla from shopping at Rimowa and Louis Vuitton in Union Square. Pearsall had been signing autographs earlier in the day before the incident occurred.
Fortunately, the bullet that struck Pearsall exited his back after entering his chest, narrowly missing his vital organs. Pearsall was released from the hospital the following day and is expected to make a full recovery.
The San Francisco 49ers expressed their gratitude to the San Francisco Police Department, emergency medical services, doctors, and staff at San Francisco General Hospital for their swift response and care. The organization, along with Pearsall and his family, are thankful for the support during this challenging time.
