Alejandra Franco Obituary, Death: Tarleton State Rodeo Athlete Remembered After Fatal Injury During Alpine Performance

The collegiate rodeo community is mourning the loss of Alejandra Franco, a Tarleton State University rodeo athlete from Mexico who died after suffering injuries during a rodeo performance in Alpine, Texas.

Franco was participating in a rodeo event at the S.A.L.E. Arena in Alpine on Thursday night, September 24, 2026, when she was injured. Sul Ross State University Rodeo confirmed her death in a statement released the following day.

Officials have not publicly released details about the incident, including what occurred during the performance or the specific nature of the injuries Franco sustained.

Who Was Alejandra Franco?

Alejandra Franco was a student-athlete at Tarleton State University and a member of the university’s rodeo team.

Originally from Mexico, Franco competed in breakaway roping, a rodeo event that requires speed, precision and skill. She was known within the collegiate rodeo community as a dedicated competitor and teammate.

Her death has affected athletes, coaches and supporters across the collegiate rodeo world.

Alejandra Franco Rodeo Career

Franco represented Tarleton State University as part of its rodeo program, competing at the collegiate level while continuing to develop her skills as a rodeo athlete.

Her involvement in breakaway roping made her part of a highly competitive community of student-athletes who balance academics with demanding athletic schedules.

Tarleton State officials described her as not only a competitor but also a valued member of the campus community.

Tarleton State Remembers Alejandra Franco

Tarleton State head rodeo coach Mark Eakin remembered Franco as a tremendous person and outstanding competitor.

He described her as a cherished member of the university community and a campus leader who made those around her feel welcomed and loved.

The university said Franco’s influence would continue through the people whose lives she touched.

For teammates and classmates, her memory extends beyond rodeo achievements to the relationships and connections she built throughout her time at Tarleton State.

Rodeo Community Mourns Loss

The wider rodeo community has also shared condolences following Franco’s death.

Sul Ross State University Rodeo expressed sympathy for Franco’s family, teammates and friends. Officials said counselors were made available to support athletes and members of the rodeo community following the loss.

The National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) also offered condolences to Franco’s family, Tarleton State University and the Lone Star Region rodeo community.

The loss has been felt across collegiate rodeo programs as athletes and coaches remember Franco’s dedication and passion for the sport.

What Happened to Alejandra Franco?

Franco was injured during a rodeo performance at the S.A.L.E. Arena in Alpine, Texas, on September 24, 2026.

At this time, officials have not released:

• The exact circumstances of the incident

• The type of injuries she suffered

• Whether any equipment or other factors were involved

• Additional details surrounding her death

Authorities and university officials have not provided further public information regarding the circumstances.

Alejandra Franco Obituary and Memorial Information

Funeral arrangements and memorial details for Alejandra Franco have not been publicly announced.

Additional information may be shared by her family, Tarleton State University or other authorized representatives when available.

The rodeo community continues to honor Franco’s memory and support those closest to her.

Alejandra Franco Biography at a Glance

Remembering Alejandra Franco

Alejandra Franco is being remembered as more than a rodeo athlete.

To her teammates, coaches and university community, she was a friend, competitor and leader who brought positivity and dedication to those around her.

Her time in collegiate rodeo was cut short, but the impact she made on the people who knew her continues through their memories, tributes and support for one another.

The Tarleton State and broader rodeo communities continue to mourn the loss of a talented student-athlete whose passion for the sport left a lasting impression.

Disclaimer: This article is based on statements from Tarleton State University, Sul Ross State University Rodeo and information available following Franco’s death. Details regarding the incident, injuries and memorial arrangements may be updated if additional official information is released.