A tragic car accident in rural Kansas on Friday night claimed the life of the 2024 Miss Teen Rodeo Kansas and injured five of her college equestrian teammates, according to school officials. Emma Brungardt, a 19-year-old sophomore at Colby Community College, was pronounced dead at the scene. Brungardt, an equine management and production major, was remembered for her positive spirit and dedication to her craft.
Brungardt was described by the CC College Rodeo Team as a “sweet soul” who uplifted those around her. The team expressed their grief on social media, stating that Brungardt’s light would continue to shine in the rodeo arena. Brungardt and four of her teammates were passengers in a pickup truck driven by an unidentified 18-year-old at the time of the accident.
According to a crash report by a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper, the pickup truck was headed south when it veered off the road, striking a row of trees and flipping over. The driver and the four other passengers, who survived the crash, were transported to Citizens Medical Center in Colby, Kansas, for treatment of minor injuries.
The news of Brungardt’s death sparked an outpouring of condolences on social media. One user, an alumnus of Colby Community College, expressed their sympathy for the team, students, and families affected by the tragedy, acknowledging the strong sense of community at CCC.
The Miss Rodeo Kansas Pageant also paid tribute to Brungardt, praising her dedication and unique spirit. They described her as a true gem and horsewoman who embodied the essence of a rodeo queen, always exceeding expectations. They expressed their sorrow at the loss of her contagious smile and one-of-a-kind personality.
Brungardt was attending Colby Community College on a scholarship and was an active member of the equestrian team, competing in events such as goat tying, breakaway, and team roping.