The 2024 Miss Teen Rodeo Kansas, Emma C. Brungardt, tragically lost her life in a single-vehicle accident on the evening of October 4, 2024.
Emma, a member of the Colby College Community Rodeo Team, was involved in a crash that resulted in injuries to five others, including her rodeo teammates. The accident occurred at a Y intersection on County Road 21 and a private driveway. According to the Kansas Highway Patrol’s report, the vehicle, traveling southbound, veered off the road and struck a row of trees before stopping upright within the tree line.
The 19-year-old succumbed to her injuries at the scene of the accident, which took place at 9:44 p.m. The vehicle was a 2007 Ford F-250 truck driven by an 18-year-old man from Flagler, Colorado.
Four other passengers were in the truck, including a 20-year-old woman from Larned, a 19-year-old woman from Newton, a 19-year-old woman from Galva, and an 18-year-old man from Council Grove. Following the accident, all were transported to Citizens Medical Center in Colby after reporting pain.
Originally from Blue Rapids, Kansas, Emma was majoring in equine management and production during her sophomore year. She participated in events such as goat tying, breakaway roping, and team roping for the Colby College Community Rodeo Team. Emma joined the college on a scholarship after graduating from Valley Heights USD 498.
The Colby College Community Rodeo Team announced the tragic news of Emma’s passing, stating, “Last night, she, along with four other team members and our work-study, were involved in a car accident.
Unfortunately, Emma did not walk away from this. We are praying for all families involved.” They honored her memory, describing her as a kind-hearted individual who brought positivity to those around her, stating, “Her light will live on in and around the rodeo arena.”
The Miss Rodeo Kansas Pageant also extended their heartfelt condolences to Emma’s family, remembering her as “Our beautiful Miss Teen Rodeo Kansas 2024.” They praised Emma as a remarkable person and talented horsewoman who embodied the spirit of a rodeo queen, adding, “We will miss her contagious smile and one-in-a-million personality.”
Emma’s profile on the Miss Rodeo Kansas website highlighted her achievements and commitment as a first-generation cowgirl, showcasing her passion for the Western lifestyle that began in high school.
She competed in the Kansas Wild Horse Youth Challenge for four consecutive years, securing grand champion titles in both 2019 and 2021. Before that, she participated in the Kansas High School Rodeo Association for two years. Emma will be deeply missed by all who knew her and admired her talent and dedication.