Atlanta Falcons Rookie James Pearce Jr. Arrested After Alleged Hit-and-Run Incident
Key Highlights:
- Atlanta Falcons linebacker James Pearce Jr. faces multiple charges.
- The incident involved WNBA star Rickea Jackson.
- Pearce alleges innocence and looks forward to legal proceedings.
Incident Overview
Atlanta Falcons rookie James Pearce Jr. was involved in a serious incident over the weekend in Doral, Florida, resulting in his arrest. Pearce reportedly crashed his white Lamborghini SUV into a vehicle driven by Rickea Jackson, a forward for the Los Angeles Sparks, not once but twice. The allegation includes intentionally striking a police officer while attempting to evade capture.
Details of the Event
According to a criminal complaint acquired by ESPN, Jackson, who recently ended a three-year relationship with Pearce, stated that he was following her vehicle. Upon reaching a red light, he exited his car and tried to enter hers, prompting Jackson to accelerate toward the Doral Police Department.
Retelling Jackson’s Account:
- Rear-end Collision: Pearce’s vehicle hit Jackson’s car from behind.
- Head-On Impact: He then made contact with her vehicle head-on as she attempted to escape.
Photos of the damaged vehicle corroborated Jackson’s statements, according to the Miami-Dade County state attorney’s office affidavit.
Charges Against Pearce
James Pearce Jr. faces several serious charges, including:
- Two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.
- One count of aggravated stalking.
- Fleeing or eluding police after ignoring commands from officers.
Upon the police’s arrival, Pearce reportedly stood outside his vehicle, but when an officer drew his weapon, he entered his car and attempted to drive away, striking the officer’s knee in the process.
Apprehension and Aftermath
Following his escape attempt, Pearce crashed his SUV at an intersection and fled on foot. The police were able to subdue him after some resistance, and he was later transported to Jackson West Medical Center for evaluation.
Pearce was promptly released from the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center after posting a $20,500 bond on Sunday evening.
Jackson’s Communication with Pearce
Prior to the incident, Jackson had taken steps to cut off communication with Pearce. She blocked his number but noted that he used alternate methods to reach her. In a text, she had explicitly asked him to leave her alone, emphasizing her desire for no further contact.
Legal Representation and Statement
Pearce’s legal team has stated that their client “maintains his innocence,” emphasizing that the complete details of the incident have yet to be revealed. They are cooperating with the State Attorney’s Office to investigate further.
“While allegations can shape a narrative, they do not tell the whole story,” the statement read.
Status of the Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons organization has acknowledged the situation, indicating they are gathering more information before making further comments regarding this active legal matter.
Background on James Pearce Jr. and Rickea Jackson
- Pearce’s NFL Journey: Having been picked 26th overall by the Falcons from Tennessee in the 2025 NFL Draft, Pearce made an immediate impact, recording 10.5 sacks— a rookie record for the team. He also finished third in AP NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year voting.
- Rickea Jackson’s Career: Jackson was selected fourth overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft after an impressive college career at Tennessee, averaging 14.7 points per game in her second season.
Conclusion
As Pearce navigates this legal challenge, the Atlanta Falcons and their fans await further developments. The interactions between Pearce and Jackson have not only garnered attention in the sports world but have also raised significant concerns about relationships and personal conduct within the spotlight of professional sports.
For more information about the incident, follow updates from law enforcement and updates at ESPN.
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