A Pittsburgh Pirates fan named Kavan Markwood, 20 years old, fell about 20 to 21 feet from the bleachers over the Roberto Clemente Wall at PNC Park onto the field during a game against the Chicago Cubs on April 30, 2025. The fall happened in the seventh inning as he was celebrating a two-run double hit by Pirates outfielder Andrew McCutchen
. Markwood sustained severe injuries including fractures to his neck, clavicle, back, brain, spine, ribs, and lungs. He was initially in critical condition but has since shown significant improvement, breathing independently and able to communicate, though he still experiences a lot of pain and difficulty sleeping
. A friend of Markwood, Ethan Kirkwood, 21, has been charged with furnishing alcohol to a minor in connection with the incident. Kirkwood admitted to police that he bought alcoholic drinks for Markwood during the game. Surveillance footage showed them both holding beer before the fall. Kirkwood faces two misdemeanor charges for providing the alcohol
. The incident deeply affected the Pirates team and fans, with players from both teams taking a knee in prayer during the game. The Pirates organization expressed sorrow and support for Markwood and his family
. A GoFundMe campaign raised over $58,000 to help with his medical expenses
. In summary, the fan who fell at the Pirates game was Kavan Markwood, who suffered serious injuries after falling from the stands, and his friend Ethan Kirkwood was charged for supplying him alcohol before the fall
