Disney performer dies days after performance fall

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.