Ace Patton Ashford, an 18-year-old rodeo roper, tragically lost his life on August 12 in a freak accident involving his horse, just weeks before reaching a lifelong goal.
The heartbreaking incident occurred around 8 a.m. near Chilton, Texas, about 20 miles south of Waco. According to NBC affiliate KPLCTV, the accident happened when Ashford and a calf startled a nearby horse.
The Lott Volunteer Fire Department reported that Ashford’s leg became caught, and the horse dragged him across an open field. When first responders arrived, Ashford was breathing and had a heartbeat despite suffering head injuries.
He was airlifted to a hospital by helicopter but sadly passed away from his injuries.
