ALPINE, TEXAS — Alejandra Franco, a member of the Tarleton State University rodeo team, has died after sustaining injuries during a rodeo event in Alpine, Texas, on Thursday, September 24, 2026.
The incident occurred at the S.A.L.E. Arena during a rodeo hosted by the Sul Ross State University Rodeo program. University and rodeo officials confirmed Franco’s death and expressed condolences to her family, teammates and the wider rodeo community.
Tarleton State mourns student athlete
The Tarleton State Rodeo Team said it was deeply saddened by Franco’s passing, describing her as someone who left a lasting impact on those who knew her.
Tarleton State University President Dr. James Hurley also expressed condolences, saying the university community was heartbroken by her death and remembering Franco as a valued member of the Tarleton family.
The statements did not provide additional details about the circumstances of the incident or specify which rodeo discipline Franco was participating in.
Rodeo community responds
Sul Ross State University Rodeo said the remaining events of the weekend would continue in Franco’s honor. Counseling resources were also made available to athletes affected by the loss.
Details surrounding the accident remain limited as officials and the universities respond to the incident. Information about the specific circumstances leading to Franco’s injuries has not been widely released.
Franco’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief within the Tarleton State and collegiate rodeo communities. Further information may be released by the universities or other authorities as the situation develops.
This report will be updated if verified information becomes available.