As per PEOPLE, the driver and Brungardt’s four teammates – all aged between 18 and 20 – were taken to hospital to be treated for their injuries. Brungardt, who was crowned 2024 Miss Teen Rodeo Kansas, died at the scene.

“Last night [Brungardt] along with four other team members and our work-study were involved in a car accident,” read a message published to Facebook by Colby Community College.

“Unfortunately Emma did not walk away from this … We are praying for all families involved. Her light will live on in and around the rodeo arena,” the post concluded.

The Miss Rodeo Kansas Pageant, meanwhile, wrote: “The Miss Rodeo Kansas Pageant would like to express our deepest condolences to the family of Emma Brungardt, our beautiful Miss Teen Rodeo Kansas 2024.”

“Emma was a true gem and horsewoman who embodied what it meant to be a rodeo queen, always going above and beyond what was expected of her.

“We will miss her contagious smile and one in a million personality. Please keep her family and friends in your prayers as they navigate through this unimaginable loss,” the post concluded.