College rodeo athlete dies from injuries at event: 'Touched so many lives'

WACO, Texas (KWTX/Gray News) - The Texas rodeo community is mourning a member of the Tarleton State University team who died during an event on Thursday. [KTRE]

Alejandra Franco, a student-athlete representing Tarleton State University's rodeo program, sustained fatal injuries while competing Thursday at an event hosted by Sul Ross State University in Alpine. The Stephenville-based institution confirmed Franco's death following the incident at S.A.L.E. Arena.

Franco's death has reverberated through Texas' rodeo circuit, prompting expressions of grief and remembrance from university leadership and fellow competitors. Tarleton State President James Hurley characterized Franco in a written statement as a valued member of the university community whose presence enriched those around her. Hurley noted her "friendly smile, leadership, kindness and the love she shared" with peers and colleagues.

In remarks posted to social media, Tarleton State described Franco as having "tragically lost her life" while emphasizing the profound impression she made on campus. University officials said she left "a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her."

To commemorate Franco during the remainder of the weekend rodeo competition, Sul Ross State University announced a tribute initiative. Purple ribbons will be distributed at the arena's entrance throughout the event, with organizers encouraging attendees to wear the ribbons or display purple clothing in recognition of Franco's memory and as a gesture of solidarity with her loved ones.

Franco marked her birthday approximately one month prior to the incident. The Tarleton State rodeo team acknowledged the occasion on social media in late August with a celebratory post.

No additional details regarding the circumstances of the accident or Franco's specific rodeo event have been disclosed publicly.