The National
Spinal Cord
Injury Association

Disability in the News Archive

Professional Bull Rider Jerome Davis Seriously Injured in Fort Worth

FORT WORTH, Texas, March 15 /PRNewswire/ -- The competition took a tragic turn for Jerome Davis last night at the Tuff Hedeman Championship Challenge, the eighth stop on the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) 1998 Bud Light Cup Tour presented by Las Vegas. Davis, a 25-year-old bull rider from Archdale, NC, collided head-to-head with Jerry Nelson's bull, Knock 'Em Out John, approximately 5 seconds into his ride during Saturday night's round one of competition.

Directly following the initial impact of Davis' jaw and the bull's horn, an unconscious Davis was thrown to the ground. Davis was immediately taken to John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth where medical officials reported that Davis' injury was a displaced vertebrae in his neck.

According to Justin Sportsmedicine Director Tandy Freeman, M.D., Davis is currently paralyzed in his lower extremities due to the severity of the cervical (spine and neck area) injuries, but he remains in stable condition. Davis will undergo surgery today.

"The surgery today will decompress the spinal cord stabilizing the spine and the neck," said Freeman. "He (Davis) is alert and aware of what's going on. The prognosis at this time for full recovery is guarded and more information will be available tomorrow."

Randy Bernard, chief executive officer for the PBR, said, "At this time each member of the PBR, and all of the families and friends are praying for Jerome, and we are hoping to have encouraging news following the surgery today."

All questions regarding the status and progress of Jerome Davis can be directed to Jessica Weber, Professional Bull Riders Headquarters in Colorado Springs, Colo., 719-471-3008, ext. 114.

SOURCE Professional Bull Riders

Back to Disability in the News Archive

Browse the News Room Archives