ARLINGTON, Texas — A nationally-ranked professional bull rider from Box Elder County was seriously injured during the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo Wednesday.
Tyler Bingham, 27, is recovering in a Texas ICU with multiple injuries and his family credits his optional protective gear for keeping him alive.
On night seven of the NFR, Tyler was assigned a notorious bull named “Spotted Demon.”
Out of the gate, Tyler caught a horn on the upside of his head which knocked him unconscious to the dirt ground. Then the bull took a direct stomp to Tyler’s chest.
“We were there first hand when it happened. It was a little nerve-racking for sure,” said Tim Bingham, Tyler’s brother.
The 1,650 pound bull broke about nine of Tyler’s ribs, his sternum and clavicle. Both lungs and heart are bruised. He has a serious concussion and internal bleeding.
“When something happens at the NFR, I think it makes it just that much more eye opening to how dangerous the sport of bull riding really is,” said Tim.
Tyler’s brother, and fellow professional rider, Tim suffered similar injuries but never at the same time.
“I’m sure he’s feeling the pain but healing-wise, it’s probably going to be a couple months before he’s doing much,” Tim said.
This year marked the the third consecutive NFR for the 27-year-old bull rider from Howell, UT.
While not required, Tyler opted to wear a helmet and chest-plate Wednesday night, no doubt saving his life. Tyler’s family is certain this traumatic ride will not sideline him forever.
“He’ll be back. He’ll come back stronger than ever,” said Tim.
Tyler’s wife posted on social media she expects him to be out of the ICU in a couple days.
