Rodeo rider cheats death when bull’s horn slices neck open

Zachary Naegele, a fearless 24-year-old rodeo rider from Florida, recently found himself in a harrowing brush with death during a bull riding competition at the Conley Invitational in Palmetto, Florida. The terrifying moment unfolded on February 7, 2024, when the bull he was riding unleashed its fury, goring him in the neck with one of its sharp horns. The incident sent shockwaves through the crowd and was captured on video, showing the intense and life-threatening moment when the bull’s horn pierced Naegele’s jugular, causing blood to gush out in a heart-stopping scene. Despite the severity of the injury, Naegele’s quick-thinking and the immediate actions of first responders saved his life. The young rider, who has been involved in bull riding since he was 15, later reflected on the ordeal, expressing gratitude for a second chance at life and emphasizing his deep faith in God, which he credits for sparing him.

The incident occurred during the highly anticipated Conley Invitational, where Naegele was competing in the bull riding event. Known for its unpredictable nature, bull riding is often referred to as one of the most dangerous sports in the world, with riders facing off against powerful bulls that can weigh between 1,200 and 2,000 pounds. The video of the event shows Naegele preparing for his ride, gripping the bull rope tightly inside the buck chute as the commentator introduces him to the crowd. The atmosphere was electric, with the announcer highlighting Naegele’s past successes in Palmetto and expressing optimism about his chances of winning this time around. However, the excitement quickly turned to horror as the bull burst out of the chute, displaying its raw power and aggression. Naegele managed to stay on the bull for a few seconds, showcasing his skill and experience, but the bull’s relentless spinning, twisting, and kicking eventually threw him off balance. As he fell, the bull’s left horn nicked his neck, leaving him injured but remarkably calm in the immediate aftermath.

Initially, it seemed as though Naegele had escaped serious harm. After being thrown off, he landed awkwardly on the ground, colliding with one of the bullfighters who was there to protect him from the bull. Despite the impact, Naegele quickly stumbled to his feet, appearing dazed but seemingly unharmed. However, as he began to walk away from the wreckage, he suddenly clutched his neck in a state of growing panic. It was then that the gravity of the situation became clear. Blood began streaming from the wound, and Naegele’s expression shifted from confusion to alarm as he realized the severity of the injury. The medical team sprang into action, rushing to his side to administer critical first aid. They applied pressure to his neck to stem the bleeding, a move that likely saved his life. Deputy Chief Steve Litschauer, who has 50 years of experience in public safety, described the incident as one of the most immediate lifesaving events he had ever witnessed, highlighting the quick and decisive actions of the first responders.

Naegele was rushed to the hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery to repair the damage to his neck. The injury was more severe than it initially appeared; the bull’s horn had severed his small carotid artery, a major blood vessel in the neck, and caused significant nerve damage. In a GoFundMe post created to help cover his medical expenses, Naegele described the incident as a “freak accident” and revealed that he had lost a substantial amount of blood. Despite the odds, he pulled through the surgery and was eventually able to return home to Louisiana just a few days later. The incident has left a deep impression on Naegele, but it has not diminished his passion for the sport. In an interview with Fox 13, he shared his thoughts on the incident, expressing a mix of gratitude and humility. “I really didn’t feel it when it first happened,” he said. “I thought I broke my jaw until I grabbed my chin and then I saw the blood squirt out from my neck, and I said, ‘This ain’t good.’” Naegele, who has been riding bulls since he was 15, credited his faith in God for sparing his life and reflecting on the fragility of life. “If you don’t know God and you’re getting on bulls, you are walking on a very thin line,” he said. “It’s different whenever you ask God for another day, and you thank him for every day, but it’s a whole new ball game when you ask for another breath.”

The incident has also sparked broader conversations about the dangers of bull riding and the risks that riders take every time they step into the arena. While protective gear such as helmets and body armor is mandatory, the nature of the sport leaves riders vulnerable to serious injury, particularly to the neck and head. Riders like Naegele are acutely aware of the risks involved, but they are also driven by a deep love for the sport and the adrenaline rush it provides. “Whenever I get on, I always know it could be my last time, but you never really think about it when you’re there,” Naegele said. For him, the incident has not dampened his resolve to continue competing. Instead, it has strengthened his appreciation for life and the sport he loves. The support of his community and the medical team has also played a significant role in his recovery. Naegele expressed heartfelt thanks to the first responders, medical staff, and everyone who rallied around him during this challenging time. “He had a lot of people rooting for him that night for several reasons,” said Pollock, one of the individuals involved in his care. “A lot of people were in the right place at the right time.”

The video of the incident has been widely shared, not only because of its dramatic nature but also because it serves as a stark reminder of the risks and rewards associated with bull riding. It also highlights the importance of quick action and proper training in emergency situations. For Naegele, the incident has been a transformative experience, one that has deepened his faith and reaffirmed his commitment to the sport. While he acknowledges the dangers of bull riding, he is determined to continue pursuing his passion, knowing that every ride could be his last. His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring allure of this thrilling yet perilous sport. As he prepares to return to the arena, Naegele’s courage and determination serve as an inspiration to others, reminding them that even in the face of adversity, the will to carry on can be a powerful force.