A fan who fell from a stairway railing at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on Monday has died. Jason Coy, 36, fell an estimated 60 feet shortly after the conclusion of Monday night’s NFL game between the Denver Broncos and Houston Texans.
It marks the second fatal fall at Mile High in 13 months, and at least the 12th fatal fall involving a guardrail within a U.S. spectator sports venue since 2000, according to AB research. That number does not count incidents involving escalator railings. In addition, fans have suffered nonfatal injuries falling off, toppling over or sliding down fixed railings in at least 12 instances over that same time span.
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While most of these incidents occurred in upper-deck seating sections, Coy’s was the second to involve a railing within a stadium stairwell. The other came in May 2011, when an intoxicated 20-year-old man fell 20 feet to his death at Coors Field, also in Denver.
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Police believe Coy was sitting on the railing in an enclosed stairwell and lost his balance. An investigation of the incident, including whether drugs or alcohol were factors, is underway. “He fell backwards and just… every level,” Mile High Stadium employee Michael Martinez told Denver’s CBS4. “Each level that he fell down he hit his head and… it was pretty gruesome.”
The Broncos released a statement Tuesday afternoon upon word of Coy’s passing. “Along with Stadium Management Company, we extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to his family and friends. Providing a safe, enjoyable environment for guests at Sports Authority Field at Mile High is the top priority for the Broncos and SMC. We’re reviewing this tragic incident and will continue to maintain all necessary safety measures for our fans.”
