The rodeo community is mourning the loss of Emma Brungardt, the 2024 Miss Teen Rodeo Kansas, who tragically died in a car crash on the evening of October 4, 2024. At just 19 years old, this radiant young woman was not only recognized for her title but also as a promising talent within the equestrian world.
The accident occurred around 9:45 p.m. when Brungardt was traveling south on County Road 21 with five teammates from Colby Community College. The vehicle, a 2007 Ford F-250 pickup truck, was allegedly driven by an 18-year-old whose identity remains undisclosed. Reports indicate the driver lost control, veering off the road and crashing head-on with a row of trees before the vehicle flipped upside down, leaving Brungardt critically injured. Emergency responders pronounced her dead at the scene shortly after arrival.
Four other teammates from the school, aged between 18 and 20, were also involved. They were taken to Citizens Medical Center with minor injuries and are reportedly recovering. Witnesses of the aftermath described the scene as heart-wrenching as family members, friends, and fellow rodeo competitors learned of the tragedy.
The Colby Community College Rodeo Team expressed their sorrow via social media, posting heartfelt messages describing Brungardt as “a sweet soul” with “a positive attitude” who had the remarkable ability to lift the spirits of those around her. "Her light will live on in and around the rodeo arena," they added, solidifying her memory within the close-knit community.
Brungardt was remembered not just for her rodeo accomplishments but also for her infectious smile and the genuine warmth she exuded. She was majoring in equine management and production, reflecting her deep passion for horses and the rodeo culture she embraced since childhood. The community lost not just a titleholder but also someone who embodied the spirit and dedication of the rodeo life.
Stepping up to fill the void, the Miss Rodeo Kansas Pageant lauded her dedication, stating, "Emma was a true gem and horsewoman who embodied what it meant to be a rodeo queen. We will miss her contagious smile and one-in-a-million personality.” This sentiment was echoed throughout many comments and written tributes flooding social media as fellow riders, friends, and family tried to come to terms with their devastating loss.
Brungardt shared her passion for rodeo through her involvement not only as Miss Teen Rodeo but also as competitor within several rodeo events, including goat tying and team roping. Even more impressive, she participated actively within Future Farmers of America (FFA) during her high school years, showcasing her commitment to agriculture and education around equestrianism.
Days before the crash, she had shared promotional posts for horses, tapping directly back to her dedication for horses and equestrian life. The online community, along with her physical community, showcased overwhelming support, organizing fundraisers to honor her memory and help her family.
“To know Emma was to love her; her warmth, positivity, and genuine compassion touched the hearts of friends and family alike,” remembered Adrianne Meyer, Brungardt’s close friend. Meyer organized the GoFundMe page titled 'A Cowgirl's Legacy - Remembering Emma Catherine Brungardt', aiming to help with funeral expenses and support her family as they face this substantial loss. The page described Emma as not only “a pioneer for those wanting to explore equestrianism,” but as someone whose remarkable spirit brought light to everyone around her.
Authorities have confirmed they are investigating the crash, with officials advising all drivers to approach the region with caution due to the poor visibility conditions common at night. This tragic incident has reignited discussions around road safety, especially among teenage drivers and their responsibilities.
Colby Community College commended the resiliency of their rodeo team and the wider community, reassuring them, “Now is the time we all come together to grieve and support each other through this painful episode.” They have also set up counselling services for students and staff affected by the incident, recognizing the collective impact Emma’s loss will have.
Emma Brungardt’s life, though cut tragically short, will continue to shine through the many lives she touched, and her legacy will undoubtedly echo within the hearts of those who knew and loved her. The rodeo community, as they embrace their grief, remains committed to keeping her legacy alive through remembrance and shared stories of joy she inspired.
