A Nevada-OSHA investigation is underway into the death of a Cirque du Soleil performer Saturday in Las Vegas. State inspectors are at the MGM Grand, where the accident occurred, conducting interviews and inspecting equipment.

Acrobat Sarah (Sassoon) Guyard plunged 50’ during a KA show while enacting a battle scene. Authorities are reporting today that she died from multiple blunt force trauma.

Horrified audience members and Guyard’s fellow performers reported hearing her groan in pain after the fall.

A Cirque spokesperson said this was the first stage casualty in the company's 29-year history, and that the KA show would be canceled until further notice.

A memorial website has been set up in the performer’s honor, and flowers and notes have been left outside of her home in northwest Las Vegas.

Federal OSHA released a statement saying that the state level agency has six months to complete its investigation.

"Our company is deeply saddened by the loss of one of the talented KA artists Saturday night," said MGM Resorts International in a statement. "The thoughts and prayers of our employees are with the performer's family, the cast of KA, and the entire Cirque family during this difficult time."

An article in the May 2013 issue of The Synergist publication of the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), includes a feature on theatrical fall protection, “Strategies for Protecting Performers.”

The article by Monona Rossol discusses current rules, standards, and best practices for protecting performers from fall hazards.

Click here for an audio podcast with the author on the topic.