Bull Jumps Over Arena Fence, Injuring 4 People at Oregon Rodeo
Four people were injured during a rodeo in Oregon on Saturday evening after a bull jumped over a fence during the final event and struck spectators in the crowd, Sisters Rodeo confirmed.
The harrowing incident took place just before 10 p.m. on Saturday, June 8, with a spectator capturing the shocking moment on video.
“I capture him completely going over the gate and disappearing,” Danielle Smithers, who witnessed and recorded the ordeal, told KOIN 6. “Then there’s this huge pause in the zone he came out of. It seems like people go right back to waving their lights, almost like they’re not really sure what to do.”
Rodeo officials stated that the bull ran out through the rodeo grounds and back to the livestock holding pens, marking the first time such an incident has occurred in Sisters Rodeo history.
Despite the chaos, rodeo livestock professionals were able to quickly respond and safely contain the bull in a livestock holding pen. Sisters Rodeo Vice President Brian Witt explained that the bull was not targeting anyone in the crowd but was simply spooked and trying to reunite with the other livestock.
Four people suffered minor injuries as a result of the bull’s actions, with two of the victims being taken to a local hospital for further treatment before being released and sent back home.
“We wish the best to all affected. The safety of our fans is our highest priority, and we appreciate their support,” Sisters Rodeo said in an official statement.
In spite of the incident, Smithers expressed her willingness to return to Sisters Rodeo in the future, acknowledging the inherent risks associated with attending such events.
The final performance of the 2024 Sisters Rodeo took place on Sunday, June 9, concluding the event on a somewhat unexpected note.