Texas Father Mourns Daughter Killed in Rodeo Accident
Tarleton State University student Alejandra Franco died from injuries sustained during a competition, prompting an outpouring of grief and support.
A father in Texas is grappling with profound grief after his 20-year-old daughter, Tarleton State University student Alejandra Franco, died from fatal injuries sustained during a rodeo performance on Thursday night. The incident occurred at the SALE arena in Alpine.
Alejandro, Franco's father, expressed his devastation in an emotional tribute on Facebook, writing, "I have a broken soul, a shattered heart. I don't know how I'll go on without you." He described his daughter as "the joy of every day," a person with a "huge heart," and someone who "lit up everything wherever you went."
Alejandra Franco's head coach told WFAA that the student was injured in an incident involving her horse in the roping box, though further details were not provided. The coach remembered her as a remarkable rodeo rider, a "tremendous person," and a campus leader known for making others feel included and valued.
The Tarleton Rodeo team shared a statement on Instagram expressing their deep sadness over Franco's death, noting that she "leaving behind a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her."
Sul Ross State University, which is hosting the rodeo, confirmed that the weekend's events would continue. Counselors have been made available for athletes, and attendees wore purple ribbons and observed a moment of silence to honor Franco. The event commentator expressed condolences to Franco's family, the Tarleton State University rodeo team, and the broader rodeo community.