COLLEGE RODEO TRAGEDY: TARTLETON STATE ATHLETE ALEJANDRA FRANCO DIES AT 20

ALPINE, Texas — What was supposed to be another night of college rodeo competition ended in tragedy when Alejandra “Ale” Franco, a 20-year-old Tarleton State University rodeo athlete, died after suffering injuries during an event in Alpine, Texas.

Franco was competing Thursday night, September 24, 2026, at the S.A.L.E. Arena, part of Sul Ross State University, when she was seriously injured.

She later died from those injuries, according to Sul Ross State Rodeo and Tarleton State University.

A TRAGEDY INSIDE THE ARENA

Franco competed in breakaway roping for the Tarleton State Rodeo Team.

Head coach Mark Eakin said the accident occurred while Franco was in the roping box with her horse. Officials have not released a full account of exactly what happened or detailed the injuries she sustained.

That lack of information has left teammates, fellow competitors and the wider rodeo community mourning while awaiting further details.

Sul Ross State University confirmed Franco’s death Friday.

“Our hearts are with her family, team, and community at this difficult time,” the university said in announcing her death.

REMEMBERED FOR HER SMILE AND KINDNESS

Franco was remembered as much more than a talented competitor.

Tarleton State head rodeo coach Mark Eakin described her as a “tremendous person” and an outstanding competitor who made others feel welcomed and loved.

Tarleton President James Hurley also paid tribute to Franco, describing her as a cherished member of the university community whose leadership, kindness and warmth had touched many lives.

Franco was also involved in campus activities beyond rodeo, including Tarleton’s Transition Mentors program, where she helped support other students.

She had celebrated her 20th birthday on August 25, just one month before her death.

THE RODEO COMMUNITY RALLIES AROUND HER FAMILY

News of Franco’s death quickly spread throughout the college rodeo community.

The National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association expressed condolences to her family, teammates, Tarleton State and the wider Lone Star Region.

Sul Ross State University continued with the weekend’s scheduled rodeo events while making counselors available to athletes affected by the tragedy.

Purple ribbons were also distributed at the arena, and members of the rodeo community were encouraged to wear purple in Franco’s memory.

“LIVE LIKE ALE”

Friends and members of the Tarleton community have begun honoring Franco’s memory through messages celebrating the joy and kindness she brought to those around her.

Her father, Alejandro Franco, also shared an emotional tribute, remembering his daughter as a source of love, happiness and pride.

For those who knew Ale, her legacy is not defined only by the tragic accident that ended her life.

It is remembered through the smile her teammates knew, the people she welcomed and the passion she brought to the rodeo arena.

A young athlete who came to Texas to pursue her education and compete in the sport she loved is now being mourned by an entire university community.

Alejandra Franco was only 20. Her life ended far too soon — but those who knew her say the impact she made will not be forgotten. 🤍🕊️