Fiery circus performer launches self down Strip

By Nikki Villoria

Wednesday, June 15, 2011 | 11:05 p.m.

Las Vegas’ triple-digit temperatures weren’t the only thing heating up the Strip on Wednesday.

Brian Miser, known to fans as “The Human Fuse,” took to the Strip at 8 p.m. and launched himself from a giant crossbow while engulfed in flames.

Miser is the star of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey’s new show, “Fully Charged,” which has brought its acts to Las Vegas this week.

“Las Vegas has a huge circus tradition, and we’re really excited to have the opportunity to come back to the Thomas & Mack Center, and the chance to pull a stunt this big on the Las Vegas Strip is just too good to pass up,” said ringmaster Brian Crawford Scott.

Traffic was stopped momentarily on Las Vegas Boulevard in front of the Harley Davidson Café and CityCenter, where the giant crossbow was set up in the street.

With crowds looking on and after a final countdown, Miser soared at 65 mph some 110 feet through the air. He landed in an air bag in the street, took a bow and, still on fire, was promptly extinguished.

It was only the second time Miser has performed the stunt outside the circus; the other time was done in the streets of Manhattan.

The public performance was a preview of what is to come during the week. The circus will have performances Thursday through Sunday. For more details and ticket information, call 702-739-3267.