A tragic car accident in rural Kansas resulted in the death of a 19-year-old rodeo star, Emma Brungardt, who had recently won the title of Miss Teen Rodeo Kansas in 2024. The accident occurred when the 2007 Ford F250 pickup truck she was traveling in left the roadway at a Y intersection and struck a tree row. Despite wearing her seatbelt, Brungardt did not survive the crash. Four other teammates and one additional person were injured in the accident, but survived.
Colby Community College, where Brungardt was a sophomore, confirmed her passing and expressed their condolences on social media. The school’s rodeo team also posted a tribute to Brungardt, describing her as a kind and positive individual with a passion for the rodeo. The driver of the pickup truck was 18 years old, and the other passengers ranged in age from 18 to 20 and came from various locations in Kansas and Colorado.
Brungardt was studying equine management and production at Colby Community College and participated in a variety of rodeo events, including goat tying, breakaway, and team roping. She was highly involved in the agricultural community, including FFA and the Kansas Wild Horse Youth Challenge, where she achieved notable success. Additionally, Brungardt competed in the Kansas High School Rodeo Association for two years before attending college on a rodeo scholarship.
Described as a first-generation cowgirl, Brungardt immersed herself in the western way of life and was known for her dedication to the sport of rodeo. Her enthusiasm and positive attitude impacted those around her, and her passing has left a profound impact on the rodeo community in Kansas. Brungardt’s success in rodeo competitions, as well as her commitment to her education and her community, were highlighted in various tributes following her untimely passing.
The tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with the sport of rodeo, as well as the importance of safety precautions while traveling. The loss of a young and talented individual like Emma Brungardt has left a void in the lives of her family, friends, and fellow rodeo competitors. The legacy of her kind spirit and love for the rodeo will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew her, both on and off the arena.
