Shannon Stone passed away on July 7, 2011, after succumbing to injuries sustained from a fall at a Texas Rangers baseball game in Arlington.
Stone, a 39-year-old firefighter from Brownwood, attended the Rangers game with his six-year-old son, Cooper. During the second inning, he asked his son’s favorite player, Josh Hamilton, to toss him a foul ball as a souvenir. Stone fell as he leaned over the railing to catch it, tragically tumbling 20 feet to the concrete below. Though conscious at first, he later succumbed to his injuries.
Shannon Stone (1971-2011)
Photo Credit: Find-a-Grave
The tragic accident made national news, with tributes and condolences coming in from across the country. Hundreds attended Stone’s funeral in Brownwood, a town of about 19,000, located 150 miles southwest of Arlington.
Although the railing is several inches taller than required, the Rangers planned to reevaluate fan safety at the ballpark.
After graduating from Cleburne High School, Stone later joined the Brownwood Fire Department, becoming an 18-year veteran. He was remembered for being devoted to his job, and a true public servant, wanting to help people in any way he could. Baseball was a passion he shared with his son and he was always a fixture at Cooper’s Little League games.
Shannon and Cooper Stone | Brownwood, Texas
“In memory of Shannon Stone and dedicated to all fans who love the game”
In April 2012, a statue and plaque were erected in Stone’s memory. Located outside home plate at Choctaw Stadium (formerly Globe Life Park), the statue depicts Shannon and Cooper.
Its inscription reads: “In memory of Shannon Stone and dedicated to all fans who love the game.”
Blog post by Jason S. Sullivan, 07-07-25
Jason S. Sullivan 