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Performer catches fire at Florida pep rally
01:13 - Source: WPEC

Story highlights

The adult performer is seriously injured; seven students are taken to hospitals

The students' injuries are not believed to be life-threatening

CNN  — 

A performer accidentally caught on fire Thursday during a pep rally at a Florida high school.

The adult performer suffered serious injuries, according to Delray Beach Fire Rescue, but is in good condition. Seven students were taken to area hospitals for injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening.

The incident happened at Atlantic Community High School.

“There was a performer at a pep rally at the school that inadvertently caught fire and was extinguished by staff at the school,” said Kevin Saxton with Delray Beach Fire Rescue. Twelve students were treated at the scene for respiratory distress and anxiety, Saxton said.

It wasn’t immediately clear why the performer caught fire.

Video at the rally showed what looked to be a fireball on the floor of a gym.

Students screamed and rushed out of the way as a voice shouted for everyone to sit down.

CNN’s Carma Hassan and Mayra Cuevas contributed to this report.