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Teen remains in medically induced coma after rodeo accident

Posted at 10:14 PM, Apr 13, 2015
and last updated 2015-04-14 00:14:57-04

SALT LAKE CITY -- A teen remains in a medically induced coma, after he was bucked off a horse, dragged, and kicked in the head and chest during a rodeo Friday.

Garth Heap was competing for the West Lake High School rodeo team in Price. The video above shows him practicing.

During the rodeo, Garth's foot got caught in the stirrup after he fell off and was dragged.

Garth was airlifted to Primary Children's Hospital with a fractured skull. A family friend says a part of his skull was removed in emergency surgery.

Garth's parents released a statement saying:

"Garth is such a fun loving, athletic kid. He has always had a special love for horses, the outdoors, and life. He is loved by many, and that shows by the overwhelming amount of support we have received during this difficult time."

A GoFundMe page has been set up for Garth to help the family with medical expenses.