Texas University Student-Athlete Alejandra Franco Dies After Rodeo Accident

A Texas university student was killed following an incident involving a horse while competing at a rodeo show on Thursday night. Alejandra “Ale” Franco, a member of the Tarleton State University Rodeo Team, suffered fatal injuries while competing at the S.A.L.E. Arena in Alpine, Texas, according to campus officials. The Tarleton State Rodeo Team expressed their sorrow on Instagram, stating, "The Tarleton State Rodeo Team is deeply saddened by the passing of our own, Alejandra Franco. Alejandra tragically lost her life yesterday, leaving behind a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her." Franco, 20, was competing at the Sul Ross State University NIRA College Rodeo and was in the roping box with her horse at the time of the incident, as reported by team head coach Mark Eakin to WFAA. Additional details about the accident have not been disclosed. Franco was known on the Stephenville, Texas campus, located approximately 70 miles southwest of Fort Worth, as a Tarleton Transition Mentor, where she welcomed new students and was affectionately called Mama, Daddy, and Baby Ducks. Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley expressed his condolences, stating, "Our hearts are absolutely broken with the news of Alejandra Franco. Ale was a true Texan, a cherished member of our TTM and representing Tarleton State on the rodeo stage. She touched so many lives through her friendly smile, leadership, kindness and the love she shared with those around her. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the impact she made on her Texan family will never be forgotten." Franco’s father shared a heartfelt letter on Facebook, remembering her as his “light.” He wrote, "The whole world loved you, my darling, and rightly so. Because you were special. I want you to know that I’m proud to be your dad… I will honor your life by living the way you lived, with positivity, being good to people, helping the way you used to do… I love you forever, darling." Franco was also a member of the Escaramuza Charra El Gran Chaparral, a women’s equestrian team based in Mexico. The team expressed their condolences on Instagram, stating, "With deep sorrow, we express our most sincere condolences to the family of our companion (teammate) Alejandra Franco. We wholeheartedly wish that you find the strength and comfort in these moments of pain. May she rest in peace." Tributes for Franco included the phrase and hashtag “Live Like Ale.” The SRSU Rodeo team announced they would distribute purple ribbons and encouraged attendees at the Friday night show to wear the Tarleton State color, with an announcer stating, "Tonight a rodeo family is carrying a heavy heart. If one of us hurts, we all hurt."