BOSTON — A woman struck by a broken bat in the second inning of Friday night’s game at Fenway Park is in “serious condition,” according to a statement released Saturday afternoon by the fan’s family.
The woman, identified as Tonya Carpenter, was sitting in box seats located along the third base line when Oakland Athletics third baseman Brett Lawrie’s bat shattered during an at-bat against Boston Red Sox starter Wade Miley. Part of the bat flew into the stands and struck Carpenter, who then was stretchered out of Fenway Park while bleeding heavily from her head.
“Tonya Carpenter was admitted to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center last night following injury at Fenway Park,” Carpenter’s family said in the statement released Saturday. “She is in serious condition.
“Tonya’s family and loved ones are grateful to all who have reached out with thoughts and prayers but are requesting privacy at this time as Tonya recovers.”
Friday’s game was delayed several minutes as a result of the incident. It was a disturbing scene and the Red Sox were quick to send along their well wishes immediately following the game and again Saturday.
“It’s a scary moment,” Red Sox manager John Farrell said Friday after Boston’s 4-2 win. “All you can think about is a family coming to a ballgame to hopefully get three hours of enjoyment. Unfortunately, with how close our stands are to the field of action, an accident like this tonight is certainly disturbing. Our thoughts and concerns are with her and her family.”
UPDATE, 4:15 p.m. ET: The Boston Red Sox released the following statement Saturday afternoon:
“A woman was injured by a broken bat that flew into the stands in the top of the second inning of last night’s game. The fan was immediately transported to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, where she is being treated. All of us offer our prayers and our thoughts as we wish her a speedy recovery.”
Thumbnail photo via Twitter/@cnnbrk
