A high-risk archery stunt at the Orange County Fair in Wallkill went very wrong Friday night when a circus performer was struck by an arrow during a Big Top Circus show and had to be airlifted to the hospital, according to state police.
The accident happened around 9:30 p.m., during a routine in which one performer aimed at a foam target held by another. The arrow missed and hit the performer holding the target, New York State Police said. The injured performer was flown to Westchester Medical Center and was in stable condition.
Troopers identified the performers as Ana B. Daza Tavera, 42, and Edwin A. Cuervo Rangel, 38, both of Waukesha, Wisconsin. According to News 12 Hudson Valley, Cuervo Rangel was taken by helicopter to Westchester Medical Center, where the arrow was surgically removed. He is expected to recover. Witnesses inside the tent were quickly escorted out as paramedics treated the performer, and officials said no audience members were hurt.
As reported by CBS News, the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation in Middletown is leading the investigation and is asking anyone with information to call (845) 344-5300. Authorities have not indicated whether the case could result in criminal charges.
Big Top Circus Act And Fair Schedule
The Orange County Fair lists the Big Top Circus featuring Circus Murcia as a new attraction for 2026, noting that the show is included with admission. The fair is open daily through August 2, and the schedule and ticket details are available on the Orange County Fair website.
In a statement reported by Hudson Valley Post, Circus Murcia owner Alexander Murcia called the incident a “tragic accident” and said, “Our performer is safe and in stable condition following surgery at the hospital and will make a full recovery.” The circus also urged the public to respect the performer’s privacy and asked people not to share any video of the mishap.
Investigation Underway
Patch reported that Wallkill police and New York State troopers initially responded to the scene, and that the Bureau of Criminal Investigation in Middletown is continuing to take witness statements and review any footage of the stunt. Investigators are asking anyone who saw the incident or has video to contact them.
Fair organizers said the remaining shows would go on as scheduled while officials and first responders review what happened. Those planning a visit or looking for updates are being directed to the official site for the latest information on the Orange County Fair website. The fair runs through August 2.
