A fan of the Pittsburgh Pirates fell 21 feet at PNC Park and suffered severe injuries, breaking his neck, back, and collarbone.
Kavan Markwood, who is 20 years old, shared an update through Jennifer Phillips, the organizer of his GoFundMe, following the terrible accident during a game on Wednesday night.
“There’s still a long road ahead. He’s facing issues with his neck, collarbone, and back, so many challenges are coming up,” she mentioned.
The former college football player has shown “real strength” after being rushed to Allegheny General Hospital in critical condition last week.
“We hold onto hope for a smooth recovery, which will rely on proper rest and guidance from the amazing doctors, nurses, and staff at the hospital,” Phillips noted.
As of Monday night, the GoFundMe campaign to assist Markwood has raised over 90% of its $45,000 goal.
Markwood fell into the Clemente wall in right field during a game against the Chicago Cubs. Video footage shows him slipping while celebrating Andrew McCutchen’s go-ahead double, precariously balancing on a railing about three feet high.
Pirates shortstop Onir Cruz noticed Markwood’s fall and paused the game, which halted for roughly ten minutes.
McCutchen, visibly shaken, showed support for his fans after the game via a post online.
Markwood, a 2022 graduate of South Allegheny High School in Western Pennsylvania, played as a linebacker at Division II Wheeling University in West Virginia in 2023.
Stadium security and Pirates medical staff quickly rushed to attend to him after the incident.
“I really regret what occurred tonight,” tweeted McCutchen. “Let’s think about him, his family, and friends. Pray for him and hold your loved ones a little tighter tonight. I’m hoping for his recovery.”
Pirates manager Derek Shelton expressed that the accident was “very disappointing” during his post-game comments.
“Considering how high the fall was and the fact that he was motionless while the game continued, it was a tough moment,” Shelton reflected.
Markwood’s situation is certainly concerning, and many are rallying around him during this challenging time.
