Disney performer dies days after performance fall

[Luckymommyx2]

I just read this on the Orlando Sentinel website but I couldn't find anything on the other local media outlets. This is the first I heard about it and I'm still confused how this happened. Thoughts and prayers go out to the family.

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/...,7112500.story


A performer at Walt Disney World died Monday, days after he was injured during a show at the Magic Kingdom.

Mark Priest was performing Thursday in a "Pirate Tutorial," an interactive show in which actors lead guests through a series of "pirate skills" tests. Priest fell and broke his neck, according to colleagues, and he had been hospitalized since the accident.

Disney said it was not given any indication that the injuries Priest suffered in the initial accident were life-threatening. But the resort said it contacted both the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Orange County Sheriff's Office after learning of his death.

"Today, we are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our fellow cast member," Disney spokeswoman Kim Prunty said. "Our hearts go out to his family and fellow cast members, and we are offering our support to them during this difficult time."

A deputy sheriff is being sent to Disney this evening to take an initial report on the incident, spokeswoman Cpl. Susan Soto said.

Sentinel Staff Writer Willoughby Mariano contributed to this report.

[Luckymommyx2]

Here's a link to the thread on the Theme Parks board that gives more info...

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2250750

[gymnastgirlflips]

Oh no. My prayers go to the family, too.

[wishdisney]

he taught my traditions (cast member class) class. its really sad.

[doombuggy]

when i came into the office this morning, I saw this email from a co-worker here:

Today, I prayed for the swift recovery Mark Priest at our prayer luncheon. He was working at the Pirate Tutorial show at Magic Kingdom on Thursday and fell head first into a brick wall. Among other injuries, he required 55 stitches to his head and broke his neck in 3 places, though did not experience any paralysis. This afternoon, I received word that he experienced complications from a blood clot and passed away at the hospital.

Mark was a member of our church, and also belonged to the mid-week Bible study Monica and I lead. He was dear to everyone who knew him. Monica and I, and the many others whose life he touched, will mourn his loss. Please remember our church family in your prayers. He was not married nor had children, but both his parents came into town today to assist in his care and recovery from his injury. Little did they know they would be arriving for his memorial. I am not sure of his age, but I believe he was in his 40’s.


Prayers, hugs and pixie dust to his family & friends!