Trapeze artist dies after five metre fall at Bautzen circus

A 27-year-old trapeze artist died Saturday after falling about five metres during a solo performance at the Circus Paul Busch big top in Bautzen, east Germany, officials said. The performer, identified as Marina B and reported to be from Mallorca, fell at about 5:45 p.m. during an afternoon show and was pronounced dead at the scene while emergency services and police were on hand, authorities said.

About 100 people, including families with children, were in the audience when the accident occurred, police and local officials said. Witnesses described screams and chaotic scenes as some spectators fled the tent and parents covered their children’s eyes. Circus staff arranged for specialised support for traumatised audience members inside the tent after the incident. The circus cancelled its scheduled performances and posted a notice at the ticket booth saying the shows were closed due to a bereavement.

Police said the artist was not using a safety rope at the time of the fall and that acrobats are not legally required to do so. Police spokesman Stefan Heiduck said, "She doesnt have to. She decides for herself whether to use safety rope." No one else was in the ring during the...