Pirates fan who fell more than 20 feet at PNC Park identified as former college football player

Pirates fan who fell more than 20 feet at PNC Park identified as former college football player
Pirates fan who fell more than 20 feet at PNC Park identified as former college football player

During a recent Major League Baseball game at PNC Park, a tragic incident occurred when a fan fell approximately 21 feet from the right-field stands onto the warning track. The fan has been identified as Kavan Markwood, a former college football player and 2022 graduate of South Allegheny High School. The fall happened during the seventh inning of the Pittsburgh Pirates' matchup against the Chicago Cubs, shortly after Andrew McCutchen's two-run double gave the Pirates a 4-3 lead.

Eyewitnesses reported that Markwood, dressed in shorts, climbed onto the railing before losing his balance and falling. Emergency personnel, including team trainers and paramedics, responded swiftly, providing immediate medical attention before transporting him to Allegheny General Hospital, where he remains in critical condition.

Pirates fan who fell more than 20 feet at PNC Park identified as former college football player
Pirates fan who fell more than 20 feet at PNC Park identified as former college football player

The Pittsburgh Pirates organization expressed deep concern over the incident. Owner Bob Nutting stated, "In times like these, we must come together, support one another, and keep him and his loved ones in our prayers." Players from both teams were visibly shaken, with some seen praying on the field. Andrew McCutchen shared his sentiments on social media, urging fans to cherish their loved ones and expressing hope for Markwood's recovery.

Pittsburgh Public Safety officials have classified the fall as accidental. The incident has reignited discussions about fan safety at sporting events, drawing comparisons to previous tragedies involving falls at stadiums.

As the community rallies around Markwood and his family, the Pirates and the broader baseball community continue to emphasize the importance of safety measures and the well-being of fans attending games.