PHILADELPHIA -- An 18-year-old Temple University student has died following a fall from a light pole during celebrations after the Philadelphia Eagles secured their spot in the Super Bowl this past weekend. The victim, Tyler Sabapathy, originally from Toronto, Canada, succumbed to his injuries on January 30, 2025, two days after the fall.
According to local reports, Tyler was celebrating the Eagles' significant victory over the Washington Commanders when he climbed the light pole at 15th and Market Streets, part of the city's tradition where fans often scale poles during triumphant moments. Unfortunately, as more fans flooded the streets, Tyler slipped from his perch, falling flat onto the concrete sidewalk below, which resulted in severe head injuries. He was immediately transported to Jefferson Hospital, where he was treated for his brain injury before being pronounced dead.
“The loss of a promising 18-year-old man like Tyler is both tragic and traumatic. There are no words to make sense of it, and the entire Temple community mourns his passing,” stated John Fry, president of Temple University, emphasizing the depths of sorrow felt within the student body and faculty. “Our hearts go out to Tyler’s family, friends, classmates, and all who knew and loved him.”
Tyler was not just an enthusiastic Eagles fan; he was also dedicated to his studies at Temple University. A first-year student majoring in exercise and sport science, he was noted for his passion for injury prevention — reflecting his lifelong commitment to gymnastics, where he earned over 120 medals at various competitive levels. He was also cherished as an exceptional member of the university's club gymnastics team. “He represented his family and our university with the utmost class,” remarked Jesse Kitzen-Abelson, the coach of Temple’s gymnastics team.
The celebration of the Eagles' NFC Championship victory was marred by this tragic incident, which left many questioning the safety of such jubilations. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, speaking at City Hall following the incident, expressed her condolences to Tyler’s family and reiterated her plea for fans to refrain from climbing poles during celebrations. “I want to continue to reaffirm and echo the same sentiments...asking the public to refrain from climbing poles,” she stated, nodding to the history of similar accidents during past celebrations.
Authorities are conducting investigations not only on Tyler's fall but also on other incidents reported during the wild celebrations, including various arrests for disorderly conduct and injuries from violence as the crowd grew increasingly rowdy. It’s noted as many as 31 citations were issued for such disturbances on what was meant to be a night of elation.
Climbing poles has been part of fan culture surrounding the Eagles and particularly surged after their first Super Bowl win several years ago. Yet, dangers associated with this tradition have led to city precautions aimed at ensuring safety during large public celebrations. Past attempts have included greasing the poles to deter climbers, though police have not confirmed whether this was implemented during Sunday’s celebration.
“Tyler was already a thriving student within Temple University’s College of Public Health, majoring in exercise and sport science,” Fry added, touching on the promise Tyler held for his future. An outpouring of support has emerged from the Temple community, with many seeking counseling services as they grieve the loss of one of their own.
Following the incident, Tyler’s family, friends, and the wider university community face the heartbreaking reality of his absence. The university’s counseling services have been opened to students to help them cope during this challenging time, and Tyler's gymnastics team is honoring him by reflecting on his legacy as both a talented athlete and beloved friend.
Tyler's untimely death serves as both a tragedy and sobering reminder of the potential dangers associated with celebratory conduct post-sporting events, highlighting the need for increased awareness, safety measures, and community support to prevent future tragedies.