Stunt Performer Chachi Valencia Injured After Missing Safety Net in California Fair Accident

Chachi 'The Rocketman' Valencia was seriously injured during a performance at the Riverside County Fair in Indio, California, on March 2, when a sudden gust of wind caused him to miss the safety net and crash onto the asphalt. The sixth-generation circus performer sustained multiple injuries, including broken ribs, a broken wrist, and a lacerated liver, leading to a GoFundMe campaign to cover his medical expenses. Valencia, who performed at the London Olympics, described the traumatic moment as he lost consciousness after the fall and only regained awareness in the ambulance. Eyewitness footage of the incident shows the moment he was ejected from the cannon and failed to land safely, resulting in screams from the audience. His recovery is expected to be long, with surgery likely needed, and he expressed concern over medical bills due to a lack of insurance. The GoFundMe has already raised over $10,000 to assist him during his recovery period.