Professional bull rider Morgan Julian has died following a motorcycle crash in Arizona. He was 31.
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According to the Mesa Police Department, officers responded to a collision involving a motorcycle and another vehicle near Signal Butte Road and State Route 24 in Mesa. Julian was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities said the cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Julian was a well-known figure in Arizona's rodeo community, where he built a reputation as both a competitor and mentor to younger riders.
Friends and fellow rodeo participants remembered him as a dedicated father, accomplished bull rider and respected member of the sport.
"He was an amazing dad," friend Kelly Jo Hinshaw told local media. "Brought his kids everywhere with him and kept them a part of the rodeo world."
Julian spent years competing in professional bull-riding events throughout the Southwest. According to friends, he stepped away from full-time competition about a year ago to focus more on raising his three children, though he remained active in the sport as a rodeo judge.
Friend Tonka Baj described Julian as a competitor who was always willing to help others improve.
"Morgan was a very genuine dude," Baj said. "Loved helping other guys achieve their goals and make them better."
Following news of his death, tributes poured in from members of the rodeo community. Organizers have announced plans for a benefit bull-riding event and fundraiser later this month to help support Julian's family.
A memorial service is scheduled for June 13 in Cottonwood, Arizona, according to social media posts shared by family members.
