In a dramatic turn of events in San Francisco, a local police officer has been hailed as a hero after coming to the aid of 49ers rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall, who was injured in a shooting incident on Saturday.
Ricky Pearsall, a standout rookie who was drafted in the first round from the University of Florida, was caught in a violent robbery attempt. The 17-year-old assailant tried to snatch Pearsall’s Rolex watch. Despite Pearsall’s resistance, the confrontation escalated, and a gun was discharged, resulting in injuries to both the NFL player and the robber.
Sergeant Joelle Harrell of the San Francisco Police Department, with 31 years of experience, was nearby when the shots rang out. Upon hearing the gunfire, she raced to the scene, as detailed by the San Francisco Chronicle.
Upon arriving, Harrell found Pearsall, who was severely injured and without a shirt, covered in blood. Acting swiftly, she directed another officer to call for an ambulance while she took immediate action to provide first aid. Harrell applied pressure to Pearsall’s wound with his own shirt and used her cap to cover the exit wound on his back.
“I was using my hand to apply pressure to the front of the wound to prevent air from entering,” Harrell explained.
A stunning account of our officer’s decisive action that may have helped saved Ricky Pearsall’s life. Thank you Sgt. Joelle Harrell for taking swift action in the face of danger https://t.co/EFDgvU8NOn
— San Francisco Police (@SFPD) September 2, 2024
As Pearsall expressed his fears about his condition, Harrell reassured him and offered comfort by praying with him until medical personnel arrived.
In a statement, the San Francisco Police Department praised Harrell’s quick thinking and brave response. “A remarkable account of our officer’s swift actions, which likely played a crucial role in saving Ricky Pearsall’s life. We extend our gratitude to Sgt. Joelle Harrell for her heroism in the face of danger.”
Fortunately, Pearsall was discharged from the hospital the following day and is now recovering. The 49ers organization, along with Pearsall and his family, expressed their profound appreciation to the San Francisco Police Department, emergency medical teams, and the medical staff at San Francisco General Hospital.
Looking ahead, the San Francisco 49ers will kick off their 2024 season on Monday, September 9, against the New York Jets. The game is scheduled to start at 8:15 p.m. E.T. and will be broadcast on ESPN.
