An upstate circus performer was airlifted to the hospital Friday evening after an arrow he was holding as a target struck him in the neck when a colleague's shot missed. The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. at the Orange County Fair in Wallkill, according to New York State Police.
Ana Daza Tavera, 42, was performing a stunt with Edwin Cuervo Rangel, 38, in which Tavera was to shoot an arrow at a foam target held by Rangel. However, the arrow struck Rangel in the neck. Ringmaster Benjamin Jackson of Circus Murcia stated that the arrow hit "right at the very corner of the neck" and there was no visible bleeding.
Rangel was airlifted to Westchester Medical Center and is reported to be in stable condition. Circus Murcia owner Alexander Murcia confirmed the incident and stated that Rangel 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 in a statement.
New York State Police have launched an investigation into the incident.