A Saturday-night rodeo in southwestern Ohio ended in tragedy when a bull rider was fatally injured after being thrown from his bull.
What Happened on Saturday Night
Jason Blake Saylor, 35, died after an accident during a bull riding event at Fox Hollow Stables, near Waynesville in Warren County, Ohio, on Saturday, October 24, 2026. Waynesville is about 20 miles south of Dayton.
According to Clearcreek Township police, officers were called to the arena at around 7:40 p.m. after reports that a rider had been injured. Police said Saylor suffered a traumatic chest injury after he was either kicked or stepped on by a bull. He was wearing chest protection at the time.
Treated at the Scene, Pronounced Dead at the Hospital
First responders treated Saylor at the arena before taking him to Atrium Medical Center. He was pronounced dead at about 8:35 p.m., police said.
The Clearcreek Township Police Department is investigating the death as an accident. The investigation remains open, and police have asked anyone with video or information about what happened to contact them at 513-695-2525 or Detective Sgt. Kevin Barton at 937-748-1267 during business hours.
The Rodeo’s Statement
On Sunday, Fox Hollow Rodeo confirmed the death in a social media post. “Our hearts are absolutely broken following the tragic loss of one of our bull riders and brothers in Christ,” the statement said. It thanked supporters for their prayers and asked the public to respect the privacy of Saylor’s family and loved ones.
Remembered by Friends and Family
Saylor, who was often known as Blake, was a longtime bull rider who regularly posted photos and videos of his rides on social media, including ones where he was launched off the bull and walked away unhurt. Friends and loved ones posted tributes on Facebook after his death, recalling his big laugh, his sense of humor, his competitiveness and his faith. One friend wrote that he loved the Lord more than rodeo.
A Dangerous Sport
Bull riding is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous events in rodeo. Protective vests and helmets are common among riders, but the sport carries real risk even with gear. Saylor’s death follows that of Dylan Grant, a 24-year-old bull rider from Wyoming who died after being trampled at a youth fair rodeo in Wharton, Texas, in April 2025.
Protecting Yourself in High-Risk Sports
For riders and families involved in rodeo or other high-risk activities, preparation matters:
- Safety gear. Compare bull riding protective vests, rodeo helmets and face-cage helmets.
- Insurance. Review accident insurance, sports injury insurance and life insurance for high-risk occupations.
- Medical coverage. Look at health insurance plans and emergency medical coverage.
- Training. Consider bull riding schools and rodeo safety courses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Jason Blake Saylor? He was a 35-year-old longtime bull rider who died after being injured at the Fox Hollow Rodeo on October 24, 2026.
Where did the incident happen? At Fox Hollow Stables, near Waynesville in Clearcreek Township, Warren County, Ohio, about 20 miles south of Dayton.
What caused his death? Police say he suffered a traumatic chest injury after being kicked or stepped on by a bull, even though he was wearing chest protection.
Is there an investigation? Yes. Clearcreek Township police are investigating the death as an accident and are asking witnesses who may have video to come forward.
What did the rodeo say? Fox Hollow Rodeo said its hearts were broken, expressed its condolences to his family and friends and asked for privacy for his loved ones.
Sources: WCPO, Local 12, WHIO, Dayton Daily News, People, and Country Rebel, all covering the October 24, 2026 death of bull rider Jason Blake Saylor at the Fox Hollow Rodeo near Waynesville, Ohio.
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