Identity of man who fell from 21-foot wall at Pittsburgh Pirates Major League Baseball game

The young man who at a game remains in a critical condition.

The 20-year-old supporter, now identified as Kavan Markwood, was rushed to hospital after . Players from both Pittsburgh Pirates and Chicago Cubs began signalling for medical help, pointing towards the stricken fan.

It has now emerged Kevan, described as a "hardworking, highly resilient young man" by friends, is himself an athlete, a former college football player. He last played for Division II Wheeling University in West Virginia as a linebacker. Zac Bruney, his coach at at Wheeling, told that Kavan "is a very good young man."

But he is now fighting for his life as it is understood he has multiple injuries, said to have been sustained as he celebrated Andrew McCutchen’s go-ahead double in the crucial tie.

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Local media reports Kavan was excited and had taken off his shirt, then poured a beer on himself before the McCutchen at-bat. This reportedly led to the huge fall on Wednesday.

Mike Brown, South Allegheny School District athletic director, said Kavan had "made a lasting impact on the South Allegheny community, both as an athlete and as a young man of character." Mr Brown added: "Kavan is best known for his resilience, strength, and kindness. He is a friend to all — someone who lifts others up and faces challenges with courage and grace."

Kavan played five games for Division II Wheeling University in 2023 and was known for his grit, strength and leadership. He stopped playing in order to find work in another industry, it is understood.

The Pirates recognised the medical personnel who responded quickly after the young supporter fell at the arena, which seats around 40,000 people. Pirates chairman Bob Nutting said in a statement: "We are devastated. Pirates baseball is a community, and our fans are like family. In times like these, we must come together, support one another, and keep him and his loved ones in our prayers."

Speaking after the game, Cubs manager Craig Counsell said: "I'm thinking about his family and him right now... Obviously scary. I didn't see it happen, but I saw it out there after the play. I just hope everything turns out OK."

Pirates player Andrew McCutchen said: "Truly hate what happened tonight. Can't help but think about that guy, his family and friends. I pray tonight for him."

Constructed of steel and limestone in 1999, PNC Park sits along the Allegheny River with a view of the Downtown Pittsburgh skyline. Having taken two years to build, the stadium opened in 2001 and has been home to the Pittsburgh Pirates ever since.