Eagles Fan Passes Away During NFC Championship Celebrations

PHILADELPHIA, PA– An 18-year-old man from Temple University dies after climbing onto a traffic light pole and falling last Tuesday. He was taken to the hospital and was pronounced dead on Tuesday night following the incident.

The incident occurred Sunday night at the intersection of 15th and Market Streets in Center City, Philadelphia. Video footage shows the teenager atop a street pole before falling backward onto the concrete sidewalk, landing flat on his back and striking his head.

The man was identified as Tyler Sabathy, an accomplished gymnast who was a part of Temple University’s club gymnastics team and won over 120 medals.

The school is offering grief counseling for any student and has issued a public statement following his death.

“It is with deep sadness that we write to share news of the death of first-year student Tyler Sabathy. Over the weekend, Tyler sustained critical injuries and ultimately passed away this afternoon,” said John Fry, Temple’s president, and Jodi Bailey, vice president for student affairs.

This death came following the NFL NFC championship as the Philadelphia Eagles won against the Washington Commanders.

Climbing light posts has become a tradition among Philly fans after big Eagles wins.

In response, the city has taken precautions by greasing the poles in advance to deter fans from attempting the risky climb. Philadelphia city officials did not confirm whether that was the case on Sunday, partly to avoid disclosing public safety strategies.

Joy Donald is a second-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her you can email her at ndon9325@gmail.com