A tragedy struck a German circus when 27-year-old Spanish acrobat Marina Barceló fell about 16 feet from a trapeze, dying instantly as 100 shocked spectators—including children—watched in horror. The fatal accident occurred on September 27 at Circus Paul Busch in Bautzen, Germany, known for its “elegant and daring acrobatics.”
Barceló, a former gymnast who began her circus career in 2018, had performed across Europe and was celebrated for her breathtaking aerial routines. Just months earlier, she shared an Instagram post captioned, “Up here I work best.”
During her solo act that evening, Barceló reportedly lost her grip mid-performance and crashed to the ground. Emergency responders rushed in, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police confirmed she was not using a safety harness, a choice permitted under German law. Investigators are exploring whether a health issue contributed to the fall.
Circus Paul Busch has suspended performances and offered psychological support to traumatized attendees. Tributes have flooded social media, celebrating Barceló’s passion and grace.
“She loved the sky,” one friend wrote. “Now she dances among the stars.”
