Idaho Rodeo Mini Queen Dies Wyoming Plane Crash, Family Critically Injured

Thirteen-year-old Amelia Palmer, the 2024-2025 Treasure Valley Rodeo Mini Queen and second runner-up for 2026 Miss Junior Rodeo Idaho, tragically died in a plane crash in Wyoming's Bighorn National Forest. The crash occurred while Amelia and her family were flying home from Wyoming; her parents Earl and Cindy Palmer remain in critical condition, and her 11-year-old brother Aeron survived with minor injuries. Rescue teams, including Sheridan County Sheriff's deputies, Search and Rescue, and Wyoming Regional EMS, responded promptly, with airlifts to multiple hospitals for the injured family members. The community and rodeo organizations mourned Amelia's passing, remembering her as a bright, joyful presence who brought light and spirit to her rodeo community. Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing, with the Federal Aviation Administration involved. A GoFundMe page has been established to assist the family with medical and funeral expenses during this devastating time.