# Death of Tarleton State rodeo athlete Alejandra Franco

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/death-of-tarleton-state-rodeo-athlete-alejandra-franco
> Updated: 2026-09-27T13:13:49.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2.

Alejandra Franco, a 20-year-old breakaway roper and student at Tarleton State University, died following a horse-related accident during a competition in Alpine, Texas. The incident occurred on September 24, 2026, at the S. A. L. E. Arena during the Sul Ross State University NIRA College Rodeo.

While the specific cause of the fatal injuries has not been disclosed, the event was described by team head coach Mark Eakin as a “freak accident.”

In response to the tragedy, Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley and the university rodeo team released statements expressing profound sadness and noting Franco’s impact as a leader and mentor. During subsequent competitions, athletes and officials honored her memory by observing moments of silence and wearing purple ribbons.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-27: Tarleton State rodeo athlete Alejandra Franco dies in Texas accident

Tarleton State University rodeo athlete Alejandra Franco, 20, died following a horse-related accident during a competition in Alpine, Texas.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tarleton-state-rodeo-athlete-alejandra-franco-dies-in-texas-accident

### 2026-09-25: Tarleton State student Alejandra Franco dies in rodeo accident

Alejandra Franco, a 20-year-old Tarleton State University rodeo team member, died following an accident during a college rodeo competition in Alpine, Texas.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tarleton-state-student-alejandra-franco-dies-in-rodeo-accident

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Cite as: Death of Tarleton State rodeo athlete Alejandra Franco. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/death-of-tarleton-state-rodeo-athlete-alejandra-franco