A night that was supposed to be fun turned into a horrifying ordeal for 17-year-old Ayden Hulsey when he and a friend from Denison attended a small gathering in Wade, Oklahoma. What began as a casual evening spiraled into a nightmare of violence and fear .
Ayden recounted, “They didn’t take that very well… my friend is getting jumped right next to me…and the next thing I know, I’m getting jumped.” As they tried to leave and asked partygoers to move their vehicles, a fight erupted. Multiple people attacked him, and some of the attack was even filmed.
The graphic video jolted Ayden’s father, Adam Hulsey, to his knees. “I made it 15 seconds before I buckled to my knees… then I just grabbed my son and held him,” Adam shared, his voice cracking as he relived the horror.
Ayden suffered a concussion, sprained ankle and wrist, and multiple bruises from being kicked with a boot. Yet, despite his trauma, he and his family have chosen positivity. They expressed gratitude for the overwhelming community support and urged anyone with information to come forward.
Adam praised Deputy Braydon Roberts of the Bryan County Sheriff’s Office for ensuring Ayden’s safety that night and pursuing justice. He stressed that accountability is crucial: “Judgment and justice for my son is what he deserves…and what will work for me and him”.
In a significant update, five individuals—Joe Crow, Kayden Eitelman, Mason Grounds, Hailey Harrell, and Dustin Pendergrass—have been charged with felony willful injury to a minor, and all but one face additional charges for property damage. The Choctaw Nation is also involved in identifying other suspects. Ayden’s father emphasized that more arrests may come, promising he “will not quit until every single person… is held accountable”.
🔍 Why This Story Matters
Graphic footage of the assault spread rapidly online, triggering community outrage and sympathy.
Young victim with serious injuries, thrust into national attention as he fought back—not just physically, but emotionally and mentally .
Active push for justice: Law enforcement and the district attorney are calling on witnesses to step forward .
Family resilience: Despite his injuries, Ayden remains hopeful and determined, supported by a father who refuses to let him be forgotten.
This brutal incident is more than just a viral video—it’s a call for justice, accountability, and community healing. Anyone who witnessed the attack or has information is urged to contact the Bryan County Sheriff’s Office.
What do you think?
Should the accused face the harshest penalties? Do you believe justice will truly be served here? Share your thoughts below—and let’s stand with Ayden and all victims of senseless violence.
