Fergus Falls man critically injured in West Fargo rodeo accident

A Fergus Falls rodeo worker was critically injured in West Fargo when a bull struck a gate he was holding at the Chutes and Boots Pro Bull Riding event at The Lights.

West Fargo police said officers responded at 8 p.m. May 31 to 3150 Sheyenne St. after reports of an unconscious adult male with severe trauma injuries during a rodeo event. Police spokeswoman Addie Stewart identified the injured man as Brandon “Bubba” Sedler of Fergus Falls, and said his injuries were life-threatening.

Bailey Pro Rodeo said Sedler has worked around rodeo companies all his life, including Professional Bull Riders events, and described him as a veteran livestock handler who hauls and handles animals every day. Brandee Moore, a spokeswoman for Bailey Pro Rodeo, said it was “just a freak accident.” She said a bull hit the gate Sedler was holding, causing him to stumble and lose his footing, then the gate hit Sedler before the bull came around and hit him.

The rodeo was delayed until Sedler was taken to a hospital. Bailey Pro Rodeo said the bulls used during the event were back home after the incident. The company also asked people on Facebook to “keep the prayers coming” for Sedler, saying he has a long road ahead for healing and recovery but is mentally and physically strong and has a great team of doctors and family by his side.

The Chutes and Boots Pro Bull Riding event was a two-night program held May 29 and May 30 at Essentia Health Plaza at The Lights and presented by North Dakota State College of Science. For Fergus Falls and other Otter Tail County readers following the case, police continue to investigate how the accident unfolded and what led to the injury inside the arena.