It’s a heartbreaking loss. An 18-year-old rodeo roper, Ace Patton Ashford, died in a tragic accident when he was dragged across a field by his horse. This happened just weeks before he was set to achieve a big goal he had worked towards for a long time.
Unexpectedly, 18-year-old Ace Patton Ashford died on August 12 while trying to help a sick cow.
The tragic accident happened around 8 a.m. near Chilton, Texas, about 20 miles south of Waco.
According to NBC affiliate KPLCTV, the accident occurred when Ashford and the calf startled a nearby horse. The Lott Volunteer Fire Department said Ashford’s leg got caught, and the horse dragged him across an open field.
When rescuers found him, he had head injuries but was still alive. He was flown to the hospital by helicopter but sadly died from his injuries there.
They said Ashford was in “bad shape” when they found him.
In Texas, he was known for his roping skills and was close to reaching a big goal this summer.
The 18-year-old was just weeks away from starting college when the accident happened.
He had recently graduated from Rosebud-Lott High School and was set to start at Hill College in the fall.
His obituary noted his love for rodeo and Western life, saying he spent countless hours practicing roping to reach his full potential.
“Ace loved spending time outdoors, whether hunting, rodeoing, or just hanging out with his friends,” his obituary said.
Everyone who knew him loved him and thought highly of him.
“Ace never met a stranger, and he had an old soul.”
The obituary site was filled with heartfelt messages about the 18-year-old.
“Ace was an amazing young man! The world seemed brighter around him because he was so kind and happy,” one person wrote.
“He was a great person, polite, and ready for the future,” said another.
According to Sports Illustrated, Ace was born into a family that loved animals, with both his parents being rodeo competitors.
He competed with his older brother Ross, who also qualified for the National Finals.
Ace’s girlfriend, Sydney Boatright, posted a tribute on Facebook, saying, “I love you forever, Ace Patton.”
