Warning: this article contains graphic footage some readers may find distressing.
A baseball fan is in hospital in critical condition after falling from the stands at a Major League Baseball game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Chicago Cubs.
The fan fell from the bleachers onto the warning track at Pittsburgh’s PNC Park during the seventh inning on Wednesday, near the end of a game that was ultimately won 4-3 by the home team but naturally overshadowed by the harrowing incident.
He was treated on the field by emergency services and both teams’ medical staff for around five minutes before being taken to Allegheny General Hospital.
Pirates and Cubs players were seen praying as the fan was transported away from the stadium after the fall, which was captured and posted on social media.
Pirates fan falls pic.twitter.com/sgppriM24b
— Bobby K (@Bobbk_) May 1, 2025
An eyewitness to the fan’s horrifying tumble told NBC News that the incident at the ball park happened so quickly he couldn’t tell whether the fan had jumped or fallen.
The seriousness of the incident was immediately apparent and the players were understandably concerned.
“Andrew McCutchen, an outfielder for the Pirates, covered his mouth and took the knee,” reports The Sun.
“Chicago Cubs stars Dansby Swanson and Michael Busch also looked despondent as they watched the man being treated.”
A Pirates statement read: “Pittsburgh EMS, as well as the Pirates and Cubs athletic training teams and other PNC Park personnel reacted and responded immediately and administered care.”
Fan falls at PNC Park (Image: @_MLFootball/X)
McCutchen was clearly shaken by what happened.
“Truly hate what happened tonight,” said the 38-year-old Pirates outfielder and designated hitter.
“Can’t help but think about that guy, his family and friends. I pray tonight for him.
“Let us think about his loved ones and hug our families a little tighter tonight. I hope he pulls through.”
“I’m thinking about his family and him right now,” concurred Cubs manager Craig Counsell after the conclusion of the game.
“Obviously scary. I didn’t see it happen, but I saw it out there after the play. I just hope everything turns out OK.”
Pittsburgh and Chicago are scheduled to play the last leg of the Pirates’ home triple-header on Thursday.
Police are investigating the incident.
