WNBA forward Rickea Jackson was hospitalized Saturday morning after she was allegedly attacked by her ex-boyfriend, James Pearce Jr., inside a Walmart store in Illinois, according to police.
Authorities said officers responded to a call shortly before 8 a.m. local time at a Walmart location following reports of a physical altercation involving two individuals. When officers arrived, they found Jackson, 24, suffering from injuries consistent with an assault. She was treated on scene by paramedics before being transported to a nearby hospital for further evaluation. Her current condition has not been released, though a source close to the player described her as “stable and receiving care.”
Pearce Jr., identified by police as Jackson’s former boyfriend, was taken into custody at the scene without further incident. He is being held pending charges, which authorities said could include battery and assault. An investigation is ongoing, and police have not ruled out additional charges as they review store surveillance footage and witness statements.
Walmart released a brief statement confirming that an incident occurred at one of its Illinois locations and that the company is cooperating fully with law enforcement. “The safety of our customers and associates is always our top priority,” a spokesperson said.
Jackson, a standout forward who rose to national prominence during her college career before being drafted into the WNBA, has yet to comment publicly on the incident. Her team issued a statement Friday afternoon expressing support for the player.
“We are aware of the situation involving Rickea Jackson and are in contact with her and her family,” the team said. “Our priority is her health and well-being, and we ask that everyone respect her privacy during this difficult time.”
The incident has sparked an outpouring of concern from fans and fellow players across the league, many of whom posted messages of support on social media.
Police are asking anyone with information about the altercation to contact local authorities. Further details are expected as the investigation continues.
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