Fan injured in 21-foot fall at Pirates game identified by former teacher and begins recovery

A troubling incident occurred during a baseball game involving the Pittsburgh Pirates and Chicago Cubs on April 30, 2025, at PNC Park. During this game, the crowd watching suddenly went still. The game was going on while the people in the stands began to look and stare at something that had just happened off the field. This was not part of the game, but it did change everything.

Kavan Markwood tumbles off wall while watching Pirates game in Pittsburgh
In the seventh inning of the game, Kavan Markwood, a 20-year-old student, tumbled and fell off the 21-foot (64 m)-high Clemente Wall in Right Field at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania while Pittsburgh Pirates player Andrew McCutchen was hitting a two-run double.

#BREAKING: Fan seriously injured after falling from right center field wall onto the warning track at PNC Park during Pirates Cubs game. @KDKA pic.twitter.com/81WohnOKDL

— Ian Smith (@ismithKDKA) May 1, 2025

Kavan Markwood tumbled off the railing and hit the warning track with a thud. Medical staff arrived. Kavan was stabilized at the scene and then transported by ambulance to Allegheny General Hospital. Officials reported that Kavan Markwood was in critical condition at the time.

The accident stunned everyone in the stadium, and the Pittsburgh Department of Public Safety went on to declare the fall as an accident later. The game went on, but fans worried about the young man who had been injured.

Kavan Markwood begins to recover from severe injuries
A few days after the accident on May 5, 2025, Kavan Markwood's former high school teacher, Jennifer Phillips, posted an update on his health. She also created a GoFundMe campaign to assist in raising funds towards his treatment. Jennifer Phillips told that Kavan had taken a step forward for the first time since falling. She termed this "a huge win" for all the people who love and care for him.


She also stated that Kavan Markwood is recovering from a broken neck, clavicle, and back. His recovery will be long, and doctors indicate that he will require much rest and care. Nevertheless, his improvement brought hope to his family, friends, and the community.


By Monday evening, the fundraiser had collected close to $43,000 close to the $45,000 target. Individuals throughout Pittsburgh and far beyond have come forward in support of Kavan and his family.


David McDonald, the superintendent for South Allegheny School District, described Kavan as "a tough kid" and "a fighter." The organization for the Pittsburgh Pirates also wished their best for Kavan and his family.




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