Tragic Fall Claims Life of Talented Spanish Trapeze Artist During German Circus Performance
A 27-year-old Spanish trapeze artist has tragically died after falling 16 feet during a performance in front of families at a circus in eastern Germany.
Marina Barcelo, born in Mallorca, was performing a solo act for Circus Paul Busch in Bautzen on Saturday evening (September 27) when the fatal accident occurred. Around 100 adults and children were watching under the big top when Marina fell from the trapeze just before 6 p.m.
Despite the swift response of emergency personnel, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Witnesses described screams echoing through the tent, with some guests fleeing and others shielding children’s eyes from the horrifying sight.
An experienced acrobat with roughly a decade of performing, Marina’s fall has been described as highly unusual for a professional of her skill. Ralf Huppertz, CEO of the Association of German Circus Companies (VdCU), commented:
“It’s unusual for a well-trained artist like Marina to not survive a fall from just five metres. Perhaps she got dizzy on the trapeze. Five metres is actually not a particularly high height for acrobats; they are well-trained and muscular. The woman must have been very unlucky or fallen onto an obstacle.”
Police have opened an investigation into the incident. Spokesperson Stefan Heiduck noted that Marina was not wearing a safety harness at the time, although it was not legally required:
“She decides for herself whether to use a safety rope. No one else was in the ring during the accident.”
The community has been left in shock. Karsten Vog, mayor of Bautzen, expressed condolences, saying:
“The accident has deeply affected us. On behalf of the city, I extend my sincere condolences to the relatives and bereaved. Our thoughts are with the families and all those affected by this terrible accident.”
In the wake of the tragedy, Circus Paul Busch has canceled the remainder of this year’s tour. A note posted at the ticket booth read: “Due to a bereavement, the circus will be closed.”
An unnamed circus employee told German newspaper Bild: “We can’t believe this has happened.” Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the circus told People:
“Please understand that our management is currently very busy dealing with this terrible event. We need time to recover.”
Marina Barcelo’s death has left the circus world mourning a gifted performer whose life and artistry were cut far too short.
