A 20-year-old Pirates fan, Kaban Markwood, was seriously injured after falling 21 feet from the stands at PNC Park during a game on April 30. Reports indicate that he suffered significant injuries, including to his skull, spine, lungs, ribs, and brain.
Meanwhile, Ethan Kirkwood, 21, faces two misdemeanor charges for providing alcohol to someone under 21. Allegedly, he bought two Bagn Markwood beers during the game, which led to the incident involving Markwood.
Witnesses claim that video footage shows Kirkwood purchasing two 24-ounce beers shortly before the first pitch. According to a report from a state police liquor control enforcement officer, the server did verify Kirkwood’s ID at that time.
Another video reportedly shows Kirkwood returning to his seat with more beers about 50 minutes before Markwood fell onto the field. Authorities mentioned seeing two women running down the stairs searching for Kirkwood, while he was later seen discarding his beer cans.
The game was put on hold as medical personnel attended to Markwood. Following the fall, his family has since set up a GoFundMe to assist with medical expenses during his recovery.
Dr. Al Philp, the Chief Medical Officer at Allegheny General Hospital, indicated that Markwood was on the mend as he began preparing for physical therapy, including cognitive rehabilitation due to his injuries.
