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The rodeo community was left reeling after the tragic loss of Emma Brungardt, the reigning Miss Teen Rodeo Kansas 2024, who died in a car accident on October 4, 2024. Brungardt, a talented 19-year-old athlete from Blue Rapids, Kansas, was among six individuals involved in the crash, which occurred near Colby Community College, where she was pursuing her education on a rodeo scholarship.
According to the Kansas Highway Patrol's official crash report, the incident took place when a pickup truck, driven by an 18-year-old, veered off the roadway at an intersection with a private drive. The vehicle struck a tree row and overturned before coming to rest upright. While five passengers sustained injuries and were transported to Citizens Medical Center, Brungardt tragically succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
Colby Community College, where Brungardt was a student athlete specializing in barrel racing, breakaway roping, and goat tying, released a statement mourning her loss. "Emma was a sweet soul who picked up other people and always had a positive attitude," the college expressed through their official Facebook page. "Her light will live on in and around the rodeo arena."
The Miss Rodeo Kansas Pageant organization paid tribute to Brungardt's legacy, emphasizing her exceptional character and horsemanship. "Emma was a true gem... who embodied what it meant to be a rodeo queen," they stated in an October 5 social media post. The organization highlighted her dedication, noting she consistently exceeded expectations in her role.
Fellow competitors and community members have been sharing memories of Brungardt's impact. One supporter commented on the pageant's tribute, saying, "She was simply incredible. In all ways imaginable, especially in being a cowgirl." The sentiment reflects the widespread admiration for Brungardt's contributions to the sport and her community.
Prior to the accident, Brungardt had been actively participating in college rodeo events and representing her title with distinction. The Wichita Eagle reported that four of her Colby Rodeo teammates were among the vehicle's occupants, underscoring the close-knit nature of the rodeo community affected by this loss.
While investigations into the accident continue, the rodeo community has rallied to support the Brungardt family and the other individuals impacted by the crash. The tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of life's fragility and the importance of cherishing the bonds formed through shared passions like rodeo sports.
