A circus performer was airlifted to a hospital after an arrow intended for a target struck him in the neck during a performance at the Orange County Fair in Wallkill, New York, on Friday evening. The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. when Edwin Cuervo Rangel, 38, was holding a foam target for his wife and colleague, Ana Daza Tavera, 42, who was shooting the crossbow.
Rangel was struck by the arrow and airlifted to Westchester Medical Center, where he was reported to be in stable condition. No other injuries were reported during the stunt. Benjamin Jackson, the ringmaster for the traveling show company Circus Murcia, stated that the arrow hit Rangel at the corner of his neck and that there was no significant bleeding.
Circus Murcia owner Alexander Murcia expressed confidence in Rangel's recovery, stating he is expected to make a full recovery. "Our thoughts remain with him during his recovery, and we sincerely appreciate the outstanding care provided by the first responders, medical team, and everyone who assisted," Murcia said.
The incident is currently under investigation by the New York State Police. The Orange County Fair, which opened on Thursday, features Circus Murcia as a new attraction this year, offering acrobatics, aerial performances, and circus artistry. The fair is scheduled to run daily through August 2.
Rangel and Tavera, both originally from Wisconsin, were part of the Big Top Circus performance. This event marks a departure from typical circus performances, which usually highlight precision and safety during stunts.
