The Calgary Herald reports professional bull rider Ty Pozzobon, who was discovered dead at his home in Canada on Monday morning, took his own life. He had been suffering from symptoms of concussion injuries and depression.
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Pozzobon was visiting family in his hometown of Merritt, British Columbia when his mother and friend found his body.
"It came as a shock to everybody simply because although the family knew he was suffering depression and anxiety, he was still moving forward day-to-day, making plans, making coffee dates, signing contracts," a family friend told the Calgary Herald.
Dr. Tandy Freeman, the on-site doctor for professional bull riders, added "This is a sad time for everyone who knows Ty. It's a real tragedy. Everybody wishes there were something we knew or could have done, or in some way change what happened."
Pozzobon's death is a tragic loss. A rising star in the sport, the 25-year-old was set to challenge for the PBR World Title in 2017. At the time of his death, Pozzobon had 14 career Top 10 finishes to his name.
PBR will recognize and celebrate Ty's life beginning this weekend in Chicago, at the Chicago Invitational.
The Pozzobon family requests that fans make a donation to the Rider Relief Fund. The organization provides financial assistance to riders injured in the sport of bull riding.
"It's important that people know about the implications of head injuries as a result of concussions," said Pozzobon's mother, Leanne, in a statement.
While Tyler Pozzobon's death is a saddening loss, perhaps his memory can serve as a guiding light for future improvements with head trauma injuries in bull riding.
