A celebration at PNC Park turned tragic on May 1 when 20-year-old Kavan Markwood of McKeesport, PA, fell 21 feet from the stands during a Pirates-Cubs game. The fall occurred in Section 142, moments after a go-ahead double by Pirates legend Andrew McCutchen. Witnesses say Markwood had poured beer on himself and lost balance over a 36-inch railing.
Emergency crews responded quickly, and Markwood was taken to Allegheny General Hospital in critical condition. Authorities are treating the fall as accidental. The railing exceeded building code, according to the Pirates.
Markwood, a former linebacker at Walsh and Wheeling universities, was known as a standout athlete and respected young man. His former coaches praised his character and resilience, as did leaders in the McKeesport and South Allegheny community.
Pirates chairman Bob Nutting called the incident “devastating,” adding the team is keeping Markwood and his family in their thoughts.