A tragic incident occurred on January 28, 2023, at the Rafter K Rodeo Winter Series in King, North Carolina, when 14-year-old Denim Bradshaw lost his life during his first bull ride. The event took place at the American Legion Post 290, approximately 15 miles northwest of Winston-Salem.
According to reports, Denim was positioned atop the bull inside the chute when the animal bucked twice before the gates opened, causing him to fall and land beneath the bull. Eyewitnesses stated that the bull stomped on Denim’s chest, leading to cardiac arrest. Despite immediate medical attention from on-site EMTs and paramedics, Denim was later pronounced dead at the hospital .([rflaw.net][2], [Fox 5 Atlanta][3], [Fox News][4])
Denim’s family described him as a passionate young boy who had recently discovered his love for bull riding. His sister shared on a GoFundMe page that Denim had been excited about his first ride, expressing his enthusiasm for the sport’s gear and culture. Tragically, this initial experience led to his untimely death. The family also mentioned that Denim aspired to become a police officer .
The Rafter K Rodeo Company expressed deep condolences, emphasizing the close-knit nature of the rodeo community and the collective grief felt by all involved. They acknowledged the swift response of emergency personnel and the support extended to Denim’s family during this difficult time .
This incident highlights the inherent risks associated with bull riding, a sport known for its unpredictability and physical demands. The rodeo community continues to mourn the loss of a young life and reflects on the safety measures necessary to protect participants.
“North Carolina: 14-year-old boy dies during his first rodeo bull ride | US News | Sky News”
“14 Year Old Denim Bradshaw Killed in Bull Riding Accident at Stokes County Rodeo in King, NC on January 28, 2023”
“Teen bull rider dies on first attempt in North Carolina rodeo | FOX 5 Atlanta”
“North Carolina boy, 14, dies in bull-riding rodeo competition tragedy: ‘My lil cowboy’ | Fox News”
“Denim Bradshaw, bull rider, dies at age 14 in accident at North Carolina rodeo – CBS News”
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