Emma Brungardt, Miss Teen Rodeo Kansas 2024, tragically dies in a car accident; 5 teammates injured

Emma Brungardt, 19, a sophomore at Colby Community College studying horse management and production, was pronounced dead at the scene, authorities said, according to the New York Post. The CC College Rodeo team remembered her in a Facebook post.

“This is Emma Brungardt. She is from Blue Rapids Kansas and is studying horse management and production. Emma competes in goat tying, breakaway training and team roping. Last night they were involved in a car accident along with four other team members and our work study,” the post reads.

“Unfortunately, Emma didn’t let that stop her. We pray for all families involved. Emma was a kind soul who welcomed other people and always had a positive attitude. Their light will live on in and around the rodeo arena,” it continued.

“Emma was a true gem”

Brungardt and four equestrian teammates were traveling in a pickup truck driven by an unknown 18-year-old. The driver was traveling south and “cut between the Y and struck a line of trees,” causing the vehicle to roll over, a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper wrote in an accident report.

While Brungardt tragically died, the driver and four passengers were taken to Citizens Medical Center in Colby, Kansas. They had suffered minor injuries.

Miss Rodeo Kansas Pageant also shared a Facebook post remembering Brungardt. “The Miss Rodeo Kansas Pageant would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family of Emma Brungardt, our beautiful Miss Teen Rodeo Kansas 2024,” the post reads.

“Emma was a true gem and rider who embodied what it meant to be a rodeo queen and always went above and beyond what was expected of her,” it continued. “We will miss her infectious smile and unique personality. Please keep her family and friends in your prayers as they cope with this unimaginable loss.”

Brungardt reportedly attended school on a scholarship. She competed in goat tying, breakaway jumping and team roping with her equestrian team.