14-year-old boy tragically dies after being thrown from a bull during his first ever rodeo

An American family is devastated after their 14-year-old boy was thrown from a bull during his first ever rodeo and killed.

Denim Bradshaw, 14, suffered a cardiac arrest during a bull riding contest in King, North Carolina, when he was thrown and trampled by the massive animal on January 28.

His mother, Shannon, revealed on social media that she woke up the morning after the horrific incident 'in a nightmare [that will last] for the rest of [her] life'.

The heartbroken mum added that her son had been 'so happy' the night before the event and that she was proud of him for being so brave.

"Denim adventured into the world of bull riding and fell in love. The boots, the cowboy hats, and those big belt buckles - he loved it all," she said.

"He got to ride his first bull on January 28th, and his excitement was palpable.

"None of us could believe that this first ride would cause his death, and we are beyond devastated."

She added: "Our sweet 14-year-old boy lost his life during what was the most exciting moment of his short life, and we are now lost without him."

Rafter K Rodeo Co released a statement online to express their grief and horror over the occurrence at their event.

"Words cannot describe the pain felt," they said.

"Our sport is truly a family and we are so thankful for everyone that was there to help.

"We are thankful for our on-site EMT’s, paramedics and law enforcement that work so hard to care for the cowboys.

"This is a tragic event and words cannot describe the pain felt by this loss. We ask everyone to come together and pray for his family for comfort and healing in this difficult time."

Pictures from the scene show cowboys with their hats off and their heads bowed as the horrific enormity of the accident became clear to those in attendance.