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Falcons Rookie Charged After Allegedly Crashing SUV into WNBA Player's Car
James Pearce Jr. faces multiple felony charges, including aggravated battery and stalking, after incident with Rickea Jackson in Florida
Published on Feb. 9, 2026
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Atlanta Falcons rookie James Pearce Jr. has been arrested and charged with multiple felonies, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated stalking, after allegedly crashing his SUV into a vehicle driven by WNBA player Rickea Jackson and striking a police officer while fleeing the scene in Doral, Florida.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the growing concerns around athlete misconduct and the need for professional sports leagues to have strong policies in place to address off-field behavior that puts the public at risk. It also raises questions about the challenges WNBA players face in their personal lives and the importance of providing resources and support.
The details
According to the criminal complaint, Pearce allegedly followed Jackson's car, rammed into it multiple times, and then struck a police officer with his vehicle while trying to flee the scene. Jackson, who plays for the Los Angeles Sparks, told police that she and Pearce had previously dated for about three years before recently ending the relationship.
- On Saturday morning, Pearce allegedly followed Jackson's car and tried to open her door at a red light.
- As Jackson drove toward the police station, Pearce allegedly collided with her car multiple times.
- When Jackson reached the police station, Pearce allegedly cut her off and crashed into her car head-on.
- Pearce then allegedly struck a police officer with his vehicle as he fled the scene.
- Pearce was arrested on Saturday and released on $20,500 bond on Sunday.
The players
James Pearce Jr.
A rookie defensive player for the Atlanta Falcons who was recently arrested on multiple felony charges, including aggravated battery and stalking, after an incident involving WNBA player Rickea Jackson.
Rickea Jackson
A player for the Los Angeles Sparks in the WNBA who was allegedly the victim of a vehicular attack and stalking by Falcons player James Pearce Jr.
Doral Police Department
The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and arrested Pearce after he allegedly struck a police officer with his vehicle while fleeing the scene.
What’s next
Pearce is facing a judge on Tuesday to determine if he will be allowed to post bail again or remain in custody.
The takeaway
This incident underscores the need for professional sports leagues to have robust policies in place to address off-field misconduct by players, as well as the importance of providing resources and support to help WNBA players navigate challenges in their personal lives.
