Olivier Rochette – the son of Cirque du Soleil co-creator Gilles Ste-Croix – has been killed in an accident while preparing for a show in San Francisco.

Rochette, a technician for Cirque du Soleil, was involved in an “industrial accident”, when he was struck by a telescopic lift. The 43-year-old later died in hospital.

"I am heartbroken," said Cirque du Soleil CEO Daniel Lamarre in a statement. "Olivier has always been a member of our tight family and a beloved colleague.

“I wish to extend in my name and in the name of all Cirque du Soleil employees my sincerest sympathies and offer my full support to Gilles and his family.”

Cirque du Soleil said it is "working with the appropriate authorities" to determine the cause of the accident. The company has suspended its 'Luzia' show following the tragedy.

The tragic news comes days after Australian Olympic gymnast Lisa Skinner fell during an aerial hoop routine in Brisbane, landing on her head, breaking her vertebrae and arm.

In 2013, Sarah Guyard-Guillot died during a live show in Las Vegas when a safety wire became detached, causing her to fall 28m (94ft). The company was fined for the incident.