By New York Post (U.S.) | Created at 2026-07-27 23:06:16 | Updated at 2026-07-28 00:25:10
1 hour ago
Give these daredevils the Darwin Award.
The performer who took an arrow to the neck during a circus stunt gone wrong is part of a traveling crossbow-firing act called “Duo Darwin.”
Edwin Cuervo Rangel, 38, was airlifted to the hospital after ill-fated stunt at the Orange County Fair in the Hudson Valley on Friday.
The act involves trick shots with the deadly weapon fired backward or in pitch darkness, according to videos posted online.
An archer — prancing around in sequined costumes — shoots balloons out of an assistant’s mouth or bullseyes targets inches away from their head.
On Friday night, he stood by the target as archer Ana Daza Tavera, 42, took aim.
This time, the crossbow bolt found Cuervo Rangel’s neck as horrified crowds look on.
“Well, last night, unfortunately, when she shot the crossbow, it caught him in his neck,” Circus Murcia Ringmaster Benjamin Jackson told News 12.
Cuervo Rangel was flown from the fair grounds in Wallkill, New York, to the hospital and remains in stable condition, according to authorities.
The daredevil has performed crossbow stunts for years, both as archer and assistant, often with his wife Beverly, according to WSET Virginia.
Circus Murcia owner Alexander Murcia confirmed the incident in a statement and said Cuervo Rangel is expected to make “a full recovery,” according to 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 said.
Police said an investigation into the incident is still ongoing.
