Thursday, October 1, 2026
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Shelby, NC (WNN) - On Saturday, June 13, 2026, seventeen-year-old Turner Morris of Shelby, North Carolina, was competing in a saddle bronc event in Conyers, Georgia, when an incident caused Turner to come out of the bucking chute. The horse appeared to have an issue and went down, flipping Morris headfirst with the full weight of his body following behind. The force of the fall caused Morris to sustain a broken neck on impact. He received immediate care from first responders before being airlifted to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, where he is currently receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
Family members say Turner is already showing signs of recovery. He is able to lift his arms and understands the severity of his condition. Doctors estimate his rehabilitation journey could last anywhere from three to six months. The family is currently awaiting a referral to Shepherd Center in Atlanta, a facility that specializes in spinal cord injury rehabilitation.
Turner's story began at just four years old when he first showed interest in rodeos. Over the past thirteen years, he has dedicated himself to rodeo competitions, riding both saddle broncs and bulls while traveling throughout the region in pursuit of the sport he loves.
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The rising Burns High School senior plans to graduate from high school and earn his associate's degree. After graduation, he hopes to continue both his education and rodeo career at either Oklahoma State University or Tarleton State University, schools known for their strong agricultural and rodeo programs.
As a member of the International Professional Rodeo Association (IPRA), Turner was preparing for upcoming competitions in Oklahoma. Shortly afterward, he and his family were set to travel to Lincoln, Nebraska, where he would compete in the National High School Rodeo Association Finals, an event that brings together some of the nation's top student-athletes to compete for championships and scholarships. Instead of preparing for those competitions, Turner now faces a more significant challenge. The rodeo community understands better than most that every ride carries risk.
To stay updated on Turner's recovery, the Turner Wildman Morris Recovery Facebook page has already gained significant support.
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