On February 13, 1931, a performance accident in Copenhagen resulted in severe injuries to Leitzel.
During a routine performance on February 13, 1931, in Copenhagen, Lillian Leitzel suffered a grave accident. A swivel on one of her aerial apparatuses failed, causing her to fall headfirst to the ground. This tragic accident was a devastating event not only personally but also for the circus community that admired her incredibly. Her performances had always been an awe-inspiring combination of strength and grace, pushing the boundaries of aerial artistry. This incident starkly illustrated the inherent risks involved in circus arts and highlighted the pressing need for improved safety measures in these performances, which continue to impact circus norms and regulations today.