An acrobat fell and died during a trapeze stunt at a circus in Germany.
The performer was around five metres above the ground when she fell in front of dozens of spectators, according to local media.
It happened at Circus Paul Busch in the east German town of Bautzen yesterday evening.
Emergency services rushed to the scene, but the woman was unable to be saved.
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Specially trained experts were said to be offering support to witnesses.
Police spokesman Stefan Heiduck said: "The team was immediately deployed and cared for the guests and other circus employees."
Mr Heiduck told local media that the performer was not wearing a safety rope at the time of the fall.
"She doesn't have to. She decides for herself whether to use safety rope," he said.
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Dozens of spectators were in the crowd at the Circus Paul Busch when the performer fell, according to local media
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"No one else was in the ring during the accident."
The circus has temporarily called off its performances in the wake of the incident.
A notice posted to its ticket booth on Sunday read: "Due to a bereavement, the circus will be closed."
Circus Paul Busch describes itself as a "traditional, classical grand circus".
"We present a jam-packed program full of contrasts, magical moments, and boundless imagination: enchanting elegance and daring acrobatics, surprising animal trainers, and hilarious clowns," it says on its website.
"Circus Paul Busch stands for circus at its finest.
"Our modern show is a fantastic work of art for all the senses."
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