PITTSBURGH — The fan who fell onto the field at PNC Park during a baseball game spoke out for the first time since the incident that shocked spectators on April 30. Kavan Markwood, who sustained serious injuries from the fall, described himself as “all right” but acknowledged the extent of his injuries, saying he felt he had “broken everything.”
In an interview with local media, Markwood expressed that sleep had been difficult due to ongoing back pain. He had been hospitalized at Allegheny General Hospital following the fall during a game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Chicago Cubs. Friends and family have remained by his side as he recuperates.
Markwood indicated he would provide more details about the accident once he is discharged from the hospital, expected to be in about a week. He noted that once home, he planned to manage his recovery with ice.
Dr. Allan Philp, the chief medical officer at Allegheny General Hospital, reported that Markwood’s condition had shown significant improvement. He is no longer reliant on a breathing machine and has transitioned out of the intensive care unit, with the next stage of his recovery focusing on physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Markwood previously played college football at Wheeling University, adding a layer of community support to his recovery journey. His sister, Taryn, shared her gratitude for the public’s concern and noted that he had begun to walk again.
Newly emerged video footage from a stadium security camera reveals the moments leading up to the fall. The footage shows Markwood leaping in celebration, only to collide with the railing and fall into the warning track area. The game was temporarily halted to allow medical staff to treat him on-site and transport him from the field.
Following the incident, Pirates chairman Bob Nutting expressed his sadness over the accident, describing it as one of the most challenging moments for the team. He emphasized the importance of community support during this difficult time and praised the first responders for their swift and compassionate care.
As Markwood continues to heal, the baseball community rallies around him, sending well-wishes and prayers for his recovery.