A 20-year-old Oklahoma State University bull rider has died after being thrown from the animal he was riding and trampled.
Rowdy Swanson was riding a bull named Gritty at the Palo Pinto County Livestock Association's PRCA Pro Rodeo when he was bucked off the animal.
One person who witnessed the incident later said on social media that he came off the bull almost as soon as they got out of the chute, and the bull's rear legs came down on him as soon as he hit the ground.
He tried to escape the arena, but paramedics rushed to the scene to help him. However, he succumbed to his injuries later on, according to one witness at the event in Mineral Wells, Texas, on Thursday night.
Adult bulls can weight as much as 2,400lbs.
His OSU Rodeo Team coach Cody Hollingsworth later said in a statement: "With a heavy and aching heart, I am saddened to announce that the OSU Rodeo Team has lost one of our own,
"With a heavy and aching heart, I am saddened to announce that the OSU Rodeo Team has lost one of our own."
Swanson was studying towards a degree in animal science at the university in Stillwater, and had obtained a permit to ride bulls while he was attempting to gain his Pro Rodeo (PRCA) membership card.
The CEO of the PRCA, George Taylor, added: "The hearts of the entire rodeo community go out to Rowdy's family in this tragic time.
"We will continue to keep Rowdy and his family in our thoughts and prayers."
The chairman of the event last Thursday was also quick to add his tributes to the Oklahoma-born Swanson.
PPCLA Rodeo Chairman Scott Fenner said in a statement: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rowdy Swanson following injuries sustained at the Palo Pinto County Livestock Association's PRCA Pro Rodeo,
"The entire Rodeo Committee and our rodeo family extend our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to Rowdy's mother Venessa, his brother Roper, and his entire family."
Rowdy's girlfriend also paid a moving tribute to her boyfriend, writing: "I keep trying to make sense of it but it just doesn't. I love you so much Rowdy,
"Forever cheering for you, Rowdy. you were so loved, sweet friend. God needed a great Cowboy, & he sure got that w/ you."
The event on Thursday had finally taken place after being postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic on 1 April.
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