San Francisco 49ers defensive lineman Keion White suffers gunshot wound to ankle during post-Super Bowl gathering in downtown San Francisco and is rushed to hospital for emergency surgery

San Francisco 49ers defensive lineman Keion White is recovering after being shot in the ankle early Monday morning during a post-Super Bowl gathering in downtown San Francisco.

The shocking incident took place just hours after the Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.

White, 27, was rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency surgery.

Thankfully, police say he is expected to recover, though the injury marks another frightening chapter in the recent history of NFL players being targeted in the city.

Shooting Occurred Amid Post-Game Festivities

According to the San Francisco Police Department, the shooting happened around 4:06 a.m. on the 1700 block of Mission Street.

Authorities say the incident followed a verbal altercation between two groups inside a local business.

Reports clarify that White was not involved in the argument and was an innocent bystander when gunfire erupted.

A police spokesperson said, “Keion White was a victim of a shooting and sustained a bullet wound to his ankle this morning.

He is currently undergoing surgery. We will provide further updates when appropriate.”

White Was Spotted at the Celebration

Witnesses said White attended the post-Super Bowl festivities wearing a New England Patriots hat—the team that originally drafted him in the second round of 2023.

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The sighting reportedly caused a stir among fans, as he had recently played a breakout season for the 49ers after being acquired via trade.

In 2025, White recorded 18 tackles and 1.5 sacks, contributing crucial depth to the team’s defensive line.

Standing 6-foot-5, he has established himself as a formidable presence on the field, with 100 total career tackles and 7.5 sacks.

During his collegiate career at Georgia Tech, White tallied 7.5 sacks in his final season before making the jump to the NFL.

San Francisco Police Launch Investigation

Officers responded quickly to the scene but were unable to apprehend the shooter, who fled before police arrival. Authorities have launched an ongoing investigation to identify the suspect.

This shooting has rattled fans and the 49ers organization alike, coming just 18 months after a near-fatal attack on wide receiver Ricky Pearsall, who survived a chest wound in August 2024.

The team is now hoping for a similar recovery for White.

White’s Journey from Draft Pick to 49ers Star

Keion White was originally selected by the New England Patriots in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, signing a four-year, $7.7 million contract running through 2026.

After joining the 49ers, he quickly proved himself as a versatile and reliable defensive lineman, playing over 35% of the team’s defensive snaps in 2025.

His rise from a standout defensive player at Georgia Tech to a professional contributing to a Super Bowl-contending team highlights his dedication and talent.

What’s Next?

White will begin a recovery and rehabilitation process in the coming weeks, with the 49ers and fans hoping for a full return to the field.

Meanwhile, San Francisco police are appealing to anyone with information to come forward as they search for the suspect.

The incident has reignited concerns about player safety during public appearances, particularly in major cities, and may prompt teams to review security measures for post-game celebrations.

Summary

Keion White, defensive lineman for the San Francisco 49ers, was shot in the ankle early Monday in downtown San Francisco following post-Super Bowl celebrations.

White was not involved in a verbal altercation that preceded the shooting and is currently recovering after emergency surgery.

The unknown shooter fled the scene, and police investigations are ongoing.

White, a former Patriots second-round pick, had a standout 2025 season with the 49ers and is expected to make a full recovery while beginning a rehabilitation process.