Marina Barcelo was pronounced dead at the scene after the devastating fall
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A Spanish trapeze artist has sadly lost her life after plunging 16ft during a performance in front of a large audience at a circus show.
Marina Barcelo had been performing under the big top tent in Bautzen, a town in eastern Germany, when the accident occurred. Around 100 spectators, made up of both adults and children, were in attendance at the time of the tragic fall.
The 27-year-old fell from her trapeze swing while performing a solo act for Circus Paul Busch shortly before 6 p.m. on Saturday, September 27.
Despite desperate attempts from emergency responders to save her life, Marina was tragically declared dead at the scene not long after the fall.
The horrifying accident caused panic inside the tent. Witnesses described hearing screams, with some families rushing for the exits while others tried to cover their children’s eyes from the distressing sight.
Originally from Mallorca, Marina had been a dedicated trapeze performer for about a decade and was considered experienced in her craft.
Marina Barcelo died after falling 16ft
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The fall came from what experts say was a relatively low height for a fatal accident, particularly for an artist as skilled and seasoned as Marina.
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."
He continued by adding: "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."
Authorities have since confirmed that a formal investigation is now underway to determine exactly how this tragedy happened.
An investigation has been launched following the tragedy
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Police spokesperson Stefan Heiduck revealed that Marina was not wearing a safety harness at the time of her fall. However, he clarified that this was entirely her choice and not against regulations.
He explained: "She doesn't have to. She decides for herself whether to use safety rope."
"No one else was in the ring during the accident."
The accident has shaken the local community, with Bautzen’s mayor Karsten Vog speaking to MDR and sharing heartfelt words: "The accident has deeply affected us."
He added: "On behalf of the city, I express my sincere condolences to the relatives and bereaved."
Marina was an experienced performer
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"Our thoughts are with the families and all those affected by this terrible accident."
Following the tragedy, the circus closed its doors. A sign posted at the ticket booth informed visitors: "Due to a bereavement, the circus will be closed."
Speaking to German outlet Bild, a circus employee who wished to remain anonymous said: "We can't believe this has happened."
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Circus Paul Busch expressed the gravity of the situation, telling People: "Please understand that our management is currently very busy dealing with this terrible event. We have canceled this year's tour due to this incident and need time to recover."
On social media, Marina had previously shared her passion for her work. One of her Instagram posts read: "Up here, I work best."
She also wrote: "I believe that art has the power to create unforgettable moments."