Kavan Markwood, a 20-year-old Pittsburgh Pirates fan, fell approximately 21 feet from the stands at PNC Park on April 30, 2025. The fall occurred during the bottom of the seventh inning as he was celebrating a go-ahead double by Pirates player Andrew McCutchen. Markwood lost his balance while jumping in excitement and toppled over the top railing in right field, which is 21 feet high in tribute to Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente
. Markwood sustained severe injuries including fractures to his neck, clavicle, back, skull, brain, spine, ribs, and lungs. Despite the severity of the fall, which is often fatal, he has been recovering ahead of schedule and has even taken his first steps since the accident. He has described his condition as "broken everything" and experiences significant back pain and difficulty sleeping
. Ethan H. Kirkwood, a 21-year-old friend of Markwood, was charged with providing alcohol to the underage Markwood prior to the fall. Kirkwood allegedly supplied beer to Markwood, who was underage, and faced two counts related to furnishing liquor or malt beverages. After the fall, Kirkwood jumped over a railing to help his friend and was seen disposing of a can of alcohol
. Markwood has not yet watched the video of his fall and is focusing on recovery, supported by family, friends, and a GoFundMe campaign that has raised significant funds to assist with his medical expenses. The incident deeply affected the Pirates team and fans, who showed compassion and unity during the game following the accident
