A tragic incident unfolded as a young teenage girl lost her life in a plane crash that also left her family members hospitalized. The fatal accident occurred when a four-seater aircraft carrying Amelia Palmer and three others crashed into the Bighorn Mountains in Wyoming on September 1.
Amelia Palmer, a 13-year-old rodeo queen, tragically perished in the crash, while the pilot, Earl Palmer, 54, his wife Cindy, 53, and Amelia’s 11-year-old brother Aeron sustained injuries and were swiftly taken to a hospital for treatment. Amelia’s parents are currently in critical condition at a trauma center in Billings, Montana, while Aeron escaped with minor injuries.
Amelia was celebrated for her achievements in rodeo and pageantry, having won the Treasure Valley Rodeo Mini Queen 2024/2025 title and secured the second runner-up position in the 2026 Miss Junior Rodeo Idaho competition. Heartfelt tributes poured in for Amelia, describing her as a source of joy and a shining light in the rodeo community.
To support the Palmer family during this difficult time, a GoFundMe campaign has been initiated to assist with medical expenses, reconstruction surgeries for Mr. Palmer, and other financial needs. The campaign has already raised a significant amount, showing the outpouring of support from the community.
Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the plane crash, with the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration leading the inquiry into this tragic event.
