A STUDENT-ATHLETE competing in a rodeo event has died after a horror accident with her horse in front of shocked spectators.

Alejandra Franco, an athlete at Tarleton State University sustained serious injuries during a performance on Thursday night at the S.A.L.E Arena in Alpine, Texas.

Alejandra “Ale” Franco, a member of the Tarleton State University Rodeo Team, sustained fatal injuries during an accident with her horse on Thursday

Alejandra was competing at the S.A.L.E. Arena in Alpine, Texas, when the tragedy took place

Tarleton Rodeo confirmed her death on social media saying the team is “deeply saddened by the passing.”

“Alejandra tragically lost her life yesterday, leaving behind a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her,” the statement read.

“During this difficult time, we ask that you join us in keeping her family, friends, and the team in your thoughts and prayers.”

Alejandra’s head coach told WFAA how the 20-year-old was injured in an incident with her horse in the roping box.

He added that she was an outstanding competitor, a tremendous person, and a leader on campus who made everyone feel loved and welcomed.

Her grief-stricken father Alejandro posted a heart-wrenching tribute to his daughter on Facebook.

“I have a broken soul, a shattered heart. I don’t know how I’ll go on without you,” he wrote.

“You were my everything, my world, the joy of every day. You were the happiest person, the most positive, the kindest.

“You got along with everyone because you had such a huge heart, always cooperating, always with a smile, always full of positivity, always with that light of yours that lit up everything wherever you went…

“The whole world loved you, my darling, and rightly so. Because you were special. You were the light… I want you to know that I’m proud to be your dad… That you were the best thing that ever happened to me.”

Her father Alejandro has posted a heartbreaking tribute to his beloved daughter, saying his soul is ‘broken’

Sul Ross State University is continuing the rodeo competition with touching tributes to the student-athlete

Sul Ross State University, which is hosting the rodeo, confirmed that the weekend’s scheduled events will go ahead as planned despite the tragedy.

It noted that counselors are on hand for athletes and on Friday night, attendees wore purple ribbons and held a minute of silence to pay tribute.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Alejandra’s family, her Tarleton State University rodeo team, and all those throughout the entire rodeo family,” the commentator said at the event.

Source: https://www.the-sun.com/news/17061157/student-athlete-alejandra-franco-killed-rodeo-accident-texas/