Full Breakdown
Circus Performer Injured by Arrow at Orange County Fair
7/27/2026, 2:13:18 PM
Incident Overview
Around 9:30 p.m. on July 24, two circus performers – Ana B. Daza Tavera, 42, and Edwin A. Cuervo Rangel, 38 – both of Waukesha, Wisconsin – were executing a cross-bow sharpshooting act for spectators at the Orange County Fair in the Town of Wallkill, New York. During the routine, Daza Tavera fired an arrow at a foam target that Cuervo Rangel was holding. The arrow missed the target and struck Cuervo Rangel, injuring him. He was airlifted to Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, where he was listed in stable condition. New York State Police opened a preliminary investigation and continue to seek witnesses.
Background & Context
The Orange County Fair opened on July 23 for its 186th annual run and is scheduled to remain open daily through August 2. The arrow incident occurred during a separate attraction by Circus Murcia, distinct from the main fair programming.
Official Statements & Responses
- New York State Police have asked anyone who witnessed the incident to contact the Bureau of Criminal Investigation in Middletown at 344-5300.
Data & Statistics
- Performers: Ana B. Daza Tavera and Edwin A. Cuervo Rangel – both residents of Waukesha, Wisconsin.
- Time of incident: Approximately 9:30 p.m. on July 24.
- Location: Orange County Fairgrounds, Wisner Avenue, Wallkill, New York.
- Medical response: Airlift to Westchester Medical Center; condition listed as stable on July 25.
- Fair schedule: Open from July 23 through August 2.
Verbatim Quotes
- “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,” — Circus Murcia
- “Our performer is safe and in stable condition following surgery at the hospital and will make a full recovery,” — Circus Murcia
- “If anyone witnessed the incident, please contact the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation Middletown at (845) 344-5300,” — New York State Police
- “We would like to focus on the positive side of our shows, and everyone is welcome to share positive pictures and videos of the circus instead,” — Circus Murcia
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
State police reports differ on the precise point of impact. Some outlets, including the Fox News and The Sun articles, specify that the arrow struck Cuervo Rangel’s neck. No official medical details beyond “stable condition” have been released, and the investigation remains ongoing.
What’s Next
Circus Murcia has announced that all remaining performances at the Orange County Fair will continue as scheduled, with the cross-bow routine omitted while Cuervo Rangel recovers. Fair organizers encourage attendees to focus on the positive aspects of the shows and to refrain from sharing footage of the incident. The fair will remain open to the public through August 2.
