The fan who fell over the 21-foot Clemente Wall at PNC Park during the Pirates vs. Cubs game is awake and able to speak, as reported on a GoFundMe page set up for 20-year-old Kavan Markwood. Jennifer Phillips, who organized the fundraiser, provided an update stating:
“We are so relieved and grateful to share some encouraging news about Kavan.
As of this morning, Kavan is awake, alert, and able to speak. After everything he’s been through since the accident on Wednesday night, this progress feels nothing short of miraculous.
He still has a long road ahead of him, but today brought a moment of hope that we’ve all been holding onto. Thank you all so much for your prayers, support, and generosity. Please continue to keep him in your thoughts as he begins the next phase of recovery.”
The fall came after Andrew McCutchen doubled in the seventh inning, giving the Pirates a lead. A second fan jumped down to help Markwood, and the game was paused for about ten minutes as medical assistance was rendered.
After being transported to Allegheny General Hospital in critical condition, Markwood’s situation has improved. The Pirates issued a statement, extending their support to the fan and his family:
“Tonight, during the seventh inning of the game at PNC Park, an adult male fell from the right field bleachers onto the field of play. Pittsburgh EMS, as well as the Pirates and Cubs athletic training teams and other PNC Park personnel reacted and responded immediately and administered care. […] Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.”
An internal investigation concluded that Markwood had consumed two beers during the game, yet did not purchase any alcohol. The Pittsburgh Public Safety Department stated the incident was treated as accidental.
Dansby Swanson, shortstop for the Cubs, shared his reaction:
“I didn’t see anything happen, but I saw (Counsell’s) face when he came out on the field, and I could tell that it was a very scary moment. All we could do was just pray for a good, strong recovery for him and his family. I would hate to be part of something like that again.”
Bob Nutting, Pirates owner, expressed his sadness and concern:
“We are all deeply saddened and truly heartbroken after the terrible accident that occurred last night… Pirates baseball is a community, and our fans are like family. In times like these, we must come together, support one another, and keep him and his loved ones in our prayers.”
