Tarleton State Athlete Dies at College Rodeo

ALPINE, TX — Tarleton State University sophomore Alejandra Franco died while competing in a rodeo Thursday night in Alpine.

Franco, a 20-year-old breakaway roper from Mexico, was injured in an accident involving her horse in the roping box, according to Tarleton State head coach Mark Eakin.

The university has not released additional information about her death.

Franco was competing at Sul Ross State University’s Southwest Region Rodeo at S.A.L.E. Arena.

Tarleton State President James Hurley said “our hearts are absolutely broken with the news of Alejandra Franco,” in a post on X. “Ale was a true Texan, a cherished member of our TTM and representing Tarleton State on the rodeo stage. She touched so many lives through her friendly smile, leadership, kindness and the love she shared with those around her. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the impact she made on her Texan family will never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with her family, our rodeo team and everyone who knew her. We will forever remember the light she brought to Tarleton State.”

Franco was born in Zapopan, Mexico, and had just celebrated her 20th birthday Aug. 25.