Going to the ballpark and getting tanked ain’t what it used to be. In fact, the ol’ ball game is becoming a deathtrap for fans who decide to toss a couple back and get goofy. The latest tragedy comes out of Atlanta where a 25-year-old man fell approximately 150 to his death during the eighth inning of Wednesday night’s game between the Braves and the Mets. Apparently, he was trying to slide down a hand rail when he lost his balance and fell.
“The Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Police Department are investigating the tragic accident that resulted in the death of a 25-year old male fan at last night’s game,” the Atlanta Braves said in a statement. “Our sincerest and heartfelt condolences go out to his family.”
The senior investigator with the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office, Mark Guilbeau, said Thursday that the man who fell was Justin Hayes, of Cumming, Ga.
Guilbeau said an autopsy will be done to determine the cause of death, but officials believe the victim had consumed alcohol before he fell. The investigation is “pointing toward drinking. Alcohol was a factor,” said Atlanta police department spokesman Ronald Campbell on Thursday.
Campbell said Hayes was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital with serious head injuries.
Braves spokesman Brad Hainje said Hayes apparently fell from the club level to the landing on the stairwell on the field level during the eighth inning.
These types of falls are becoming far to frequent at stadiums around the country and while everyone loves to partake in some frosty beverages during the game, we’re begging you heavy drinkers out there to practice good judgment and live to see another game.
Links:
[NBC5I.com]: Fan Dies After Falling 150 Feet At Stadium