Spectators sue Sisters Rodeo two years after bull named ‘Party Bus’ jumped arena fence into crowd

By: Alma McCarty (KGW)

SISTERS, Ore. — Two spectators injured when a bull leaped over an arena fence and into the crowd at the Sisters Rodeo two summers ago have filed lawsuits against the rodeo and its livestock contractor, seeking more than $11 million in combined damages.

The bull, named Party Bus, cleared the fence during his first rodeo appearance and charged into the bleachers and concession area, trampling both plaintiffs before the animal was contained.

In the first lawsuit, Bend resident Allison Hickey is seeking $9.25 million, alleging the bull knocked her to the ground, crushing her right shoulder and right calf. In a statement released through her attorney, Hickey said she filed suit "not only for myself, but to help ensure no one else — certainly no child or elderly person who may have stood in my place — has to endure what I have."

Hickey's lawsuit also alleges the rodeo later profited from the incident by selling Party Bus-branded merchandise and using the bull to market future events.

The second lawsuit was filed by Ridgefield, Wash., residents Kristin and Andrew Wert, who are seeking more than $2 million. The complaint states Kristin Wert was "violently attacked from behind, bucked into the air and trampled" when Party Bus jumped the fence into the crowded bleachers.

Corey and Lange, the livestock contractor that provided Party Bus and other rodeo stock, has denied the allegations in a court filing, arguing that the Sisters Rodeo Association bears primary responsibility for any injuries and damages.

The Sisters Rodeo Association did not respond to a request for comment.