The rodeo world is reeling after 13-year-old Amelia Palmer, a bright young talent and beloved Mini Rodeo Queen, tragically lost her life in a Labor Day plane crash that left her family fighting to survive.

A Devastating Turn After Takeoff

The Palmer family’s small Piper PA-28 aircraft had just taken off from Bighorn National Forest in Wyoming when it crashed into a remote mountain range. Authorities are still investigating the cause, though early reports describe it as an “unknown circumstance” during the plane’s climb.

Amelia was airlifted from the crash site but sadly could not be saved. Her parents, Earl Palmer (54) and Cindy Palmer (53), were airlifted to a nearby trauma center in critical condition. Her younger brother, Aeron (11), survived with minor injuries.

A Rising Star Lost Too Soon

Before her tragic death, Amelia had been crowned the Treasure Valley Rodeo’s Mini Queen — a title she wore with pride. Rodeo videographer Matt Sharp shared a now-heartbreaking video of Amelia waving from a horse-drawn carriage, her bright smile beaming beneath her iconic cowboy hat.

“At the end of the day, our memories are all we have left,” Sharp wrote. “Amelia will be dearly missed.”

“Pure Sunshine” Remembered

The Treasure Valley Rodeo described Amelia as “pure sunshine” who “brought joy to everyone she met.” In a heartfelt message, they asked the community to “lift her family up in prayer.”

The community has since rallied around the Palmers, launching a GoFundMe campaign to help with medical bills, household bills, travel costs, and funeral costs. According to organizers, Earl faces major reconstructive surgeries, and the family’s recovery journey will be long and costly.

“They’re in desperate need of love, strength, and healing,” the campaign reads. “Please give what you can. Every donation helps.”