Fan falls from stands during Pirates game – here’s what happened
Fan Falls from Stands During Pirates Game, Remains in Critical Condition
A moment of celebration turned tragic on May 1, 2025, when 20-year-old Kavan Markwood fell about 21 feet from the stands during the seventh inning of a Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Chicago Cubs game at PNC Park. The fall happened after a double by Andrew McCutchen, near the 21-foot Clemente Wall.
Witnesses say Markwood had removed his shirt and poured beer on himself before accidentally losing his balance over a 36-inch railing. Emergency crews quickly responded and transported him to Allegheny General Hospital, where he remains in critical condition. Authorities are treating the fall as accidental.
Markwood, a standout athlete from McKeesport, Pennsylvania, had played college football at Walsh and Wheeling Universities. Coaches and school officials describe him as a strong, hardworking, and resilient young man. The South Allegheny community and the Pirates organization expressed support and prayers for his recovery.
Pirates chairman Bob Nutting called the incident “devastating,” adding, “Our fans are part of our family.” The event is a reminder of how quickly celebration in sports can turn to tragedy.
