Bull Rider Killed After Being Thrown and Stepped On During Texas Rodeo Event

Dylan Grant, a 24-year-old competitive rodeo rider, died on April 3, 2025 after he was bucked from a bull during a bull-riding event in Texas

A 24-year-old professional bull rider was killed during a rodeo competition in Wharton, Texas, after being thrown from a bull and suffering fatal injuries during the event. Dylan Grant died from his injuries on Thursday during the Wharton County Youth Fair Xtreme Bulls event.

The incident occurred in the second round of the competition when Grant was bucked off the bull. After being tossed, the bull reportedly stepped on his neck. Despite the severe impact, Grant managed to get up and move toward the edge of the arena, where he met paramedics.

Emergency personnel at the event responded immediately, tending to his injuries and transporting him by ambulance to a helicopter, which then airlifted him to Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center in Houston. He later died at the hospital.

An estimated 2,500 spectators were present at the time of the incident. Those at the event, including rodeo announcer Robert “Blue” Jeanes, initially believed that Grant might survive due to his ability to move and the swift response by medics. The news of his death was met with shock and sadness.

Another rider was thrown off a bull at an event in Houston last month

“We’re just upset,” Jeanes said. “Sad and heartbroken for the kid and the family. For everybody that was there, it was just terrible.”

Cyd Davidson, a close family friend, expressed disbelief over Grant’s passing. “He was an absolute, awesome guy. He was so kind and so compassionate, and he was just a family-oriented kid,” she said.

Originally from Wyoming, Grant was a graduate of the University of Wyoming. A university spokesperson described him as a former student-athlete and expressed deep sorrow over the loss, offering condolences to his loved ones.

Zachary Naegele survived being gored by a bull last month

Grant began competing in Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) events in 2018. Over the course of his career, he participated in numerous PRORODEO and Xtreme Bulls competitions, earning $15,710, including $3,760 in 2025. He achieved a significant career highlight by winning a bull riding championship in 2021.

The rodeo community continues to mourn the loss of one of its rising stars.