Daredevil injured during National Date Festival performance, expected to recover

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) - A stunt performer was away taken by ambulance following a "Human Cannonball" accident at the Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival.

News Channel 3 was on scene when Chachi “The Rocketman” Valencia was shot out of a cannon, hitting a safety net and bouncing out before hitting pavement during a live performance.

CAL FIRE officials tell us he was transported to a local trauma center with what they say is a minor injury.

Following this accident, the Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival released the following statement:

"During his regularly scheduled 2:30 p.m. performance at the Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival, Rocketman Valencia, world-famous human cannonball of 23 years, suffered an injury and was transported to the hospital. Our hearts are with the Rocketman and his family as we wait for an update on his condition."

UPDATE: – Riverside County Fairgrounds staff have been informed that Rocketman Valencia will be released from the hospital this evening and is expected to fully recover.