Tragic Fall at PNC Park: A Community Rallies Around Kavan Markwood
May 1, 2025, 11:56 PM ET
PITTSBURGH — In a heart-wrenching incident that has left the sports community in shock, a fan who fell from the 21-foot-high Clemente Wall in right field at PNC Park during Wednesday night’s game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and Chicago Cubs remains in critical condition as of Thursday morning.
The incident, which occurred during a pivotal moment in the game, has been described by Pittsburgh Public Safety as “accidental in nature.” The fan, identified as Kavan Markwood, is a former standout athlete from the Southern Allegheny School District. The district’s Workforce Development Coordinator, Laura Thomson, expressed the community’s support, stating that they are keeping the “former student and standout athlete” in their thoughts and prayers.
“We’re just hoping for the best for him. I hope he pulls through because he’s the reason why we are here. He’s the reason why we play the game. People that show their support so we can do something we love, partly because of him and because of fans. So, I just pray that he’s all right.” Pirates outfielder Andrew McCutchen
Markwood, a 2022 graduate, left a lasting impact on his community as an athlete and a “man of character.” He was the MVP of the football team during his senior year, a testament to his talent and dedication.
The fall happened just as Pirates star Andrew McCutchen hit a two-run double in the seventh inning, putting Pittsburgh ahead 4-3. The scene quickly turned from celebration to concern as players from both teams frantically waved for medical personnel. Markwood was attended to by the athletic training staffs of both the Pirates and Cubs, as well as PNC Park personnel, before being taken to Allegheny General Hospital, where he remains in critical condition.
Pittsburgh Pirates owner Bob Nutting expressed the club’s deep sadness over the incident, calling it a “terrible accident.” He emphasized the importance of coming together in times like these to support one another and keep Markwood and his loved ones in their prayers. Nutting also extended gratitude to the first responders who provided immediate and compassionate care to Markwood.
The Clemente Wall, where the fall occurred, has a railing that is 3 feet high, exceeding the building code requirements of 26 inches, according to Pirates vice president of communications Brian Warecki. Despite this, the incident has raised questions about fan safety at stadiums.
On Thursday, fans were seen sitting in the front row above the Clemente Wall ahead of the series finale between the Pirates and Cubs. McCutchen, a five-time All-Star and franchise icon, shared that the team was “devastated” by the incident. He mentioned that the team prayed together after the game and expressed his hope for Markwood’s recovery.
Pirates manager Derek Shelton and Cubs manager Craig Counsell were quick to alert the umpire crew of the situation immediately after the play. Shelton described the scene as “extremely unfortunate,” noting the gravity of the situation as Markwood lay motionless on the field.
Players from both teams were visibly affected, with many seen praying. McCutchen held a cross from his neck as Markwood was taken off the field. The game was paused for several minutes to allow for medical attention, though there was no official stoppage in play.
Police have stated that any medical updates will be provided by medical personnel in conjunction with Markwood’s family. The incident has brought to mind past tragedies at baseball stadiums, such as the 2015 fall of Atlanta Braves season-ticket holder Gregory K. Murrey and the 2011 fall of Shannon Stone at the Texas Rangers’ former stadium. Both incidents led to increased scrutiny over the height of guard rails at stadiums.
In a similar vein, a spectator at a 2022 NFL game at Pittsburgh’s Acrisure Stadium died after a fall on an escalator, highlighting the ongoing concerns about fan safety at sporting events.
- Markwood’s condition remains critical as of Thursday morning.
- The incident is being treated as accidental in nature.
- Community and team members are rallying around Markwood and his family.
- Past incidents have prompted changes in stadium safety measures.
As the sports world watches and waits, the focus remains on Kavan Markwood’s recovery and the hope that he will pull through this tragic accident.
Originally Written by: ESPN.com
