Circus Performer Shot In The Neck With An Arrow

A circus performer is expected to recover after a frightening accident during a live show at a county fair in New York.

The Circus Accident

The incident happened Friday evening during a performance at the Orange County Fair in Middletown, New York. According to authorities, a duo was performing a crossbow trick when something went wrong.

During the act, 42-year-old Ana Daza Tavera accidentally fired an arrow that struck her husband, 38-year-old Edwin Cuervo Rangel, in the neck while he was holding a foam target. Emergency crews responded quickly, and Cuervo Rangel was flown by helicopter to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Because of the accident, the circus canceled the remainder of Friday night's performances.

Where Did The Arrow Hit Him?

Circus officials later shared encouraging news, saying the arrow hit an area of the neck that avoided major blood vessels. The injury was primarily to soft tissue, allowing doctors to safely remove the arrow and close the wound with stitches.

Edwin Cuervo Rangel was released from the hospital the following day and is expected to fully recover. Although he will need time to heal before returning to the spotlight, circus representatives said he has been in good spirits and recovering well.

The Circus Will Go On

In a statement, Circus Murcia emphasized that the incident was an isolated accident and reassured the public that audience safety has always been a top priority. The company also asked for privacy for the performer and his family as he continues recovering.

The circus resumed its regular schedule of performances on Saturday, though the crossbow act has been removed while Edwin Cuervo Rangel recovers.