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Clown Dies in Front of Macy's Parade Viewers

Robert Blasetti went into cardiac arrest while making balloon animals

By Kate Seamons,  Newser Staff

Posted Nov 23, 2012 6:44 AM CST

(Newser) – A sad footnote to yesterday's Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade: A man dressed as a clown died while marching in the event, beside his similarly dressed wife and in front of spectators. The New York Post reports that Robert Blasetti, 67, went into cardiac arrest while making balloon animals at Sixth Avenue and West 39th St. "All of a sudden he collapsed and fell on his back. People came to him right away. It didn't look like he was breathing. People started pumping his chest," said a witness. A Macy's rep confirmed the report, but didn't verify whether Blasetti was an employee of the store.

Spectators react as a float with Santa Claus passes by during the 86th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Thursday Nov. 22, 2012, in New York.
Spectators react as a float with Santa Claus passes by during the 86th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Thursday Nov. 22, 2012, in New York.   (AP Photo/Tina Fineberg)
The Sailor Mickey balloon floats in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York, Thursday, Nov. 22, 2012.
The Sailor Mickey balloon floats in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York, Thursday, Nov. 22, 2012.   (AP Photo/Charles Sykes)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 30 comments
Perotstheman
Nov 24, 2012 8:35 PM CST
yep...no shortage of idiots and morons here !! I think it's pretty cool thinking that his last few seconds were filled with happiness and joy. He probably LOVED what he did and was content and happy when that unfortunate moment came. We should all be so lucky. Just never know the time. Live life
sophiawolf
Nov 23, 2012 10:11 PM CST
He didn't know he had a heart condition.  His doctors never diagnosed one.  But yes, it can be strenuous.  This was once a year - not his job.  A very sad day.
sophiawolf
Nov 23, 2012 10:05 PM CST
My close family friend, Robert, is the subject of this article.  He wasn't a professional clown, he and his dear wife and soul-mate participated in the parade every year out of joy and love of life and children.  Have some respect.  We are all heartbroken. Thank you to all those who posted comments of condolence.  They are gratefully appreciated. And yes, there is some small comfort that he was happy when he went. Rest in peace dear friend.
 

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