A circus performer was airlifted to a hospital after being struck in the neck by an arrow fired by his colleague during a stunt at the Orange County Fair in Wallkill, New York.

The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. on Friday, July 25th, 2026, while Edwin Cuervo Rangel, 38, and Ana Daza Tavera, 42, were performing. The two, who are married and hail from Wisconsin, were executing a stunt where Daza Tavera shot an arrow at a foam target held by Cuervo Rangel. However, she missed the target, and the arrow struck Cuervo Rangel in the neck, according to New York State Police and a ringmaster from the traveling show company, Circus Murcia.

Circus Murcia owner Alexander Murcia stated that Cuervo Rangel is expected to make a full recovery. Murcia expressed gratitude for the care provided by first responders and medical personnel, telling the Hudson Valley Post, "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 also noted, "The good news is, she caught him right at the very corner of the neck. There was no blood, nothing."

The Big Top Circus featuring Circus Murcia is new to the Orange County Fair this year and showcases "breathtaking acrobatics, daring aerial performances, and world-class circus artistry," according to the fair's website.

The incident remains under investigation.

Sources