Ace Patton Ashford, an 18-year-old rodeo roper, tragically passed away on August 12 after a freak accident near Chilton, Texas.

While helping a sick cow, Ashford’s leg got caught, causing him to be dragged by a frightened horse across an open field.

Though he was found with head injuries and was alive when first responders arrived, Ashford later died at the hospital.

Ashford was a talented roper, just weeks away from starting college at Hill College after recently graduating from Rosebud-Lott High School. His obituary noted, “Ace would dedicate innumerable hours to roping i

n order to reach his full potential,” and described him as someone who loved the outdoors, rodeoing, and spending time with friends.

“Ace never met a stranger, and he had an old soul,” remembered those who knew him, reflecting the deep impact he had on his community. His girlfriend, Sydney Boatright, expressed her grief in a heartfelt Facebook post, writing, “I love you forever, Ace Patton.”

Ashford’s tragic death has left a void in the lives of many who cherished him.