Plane Crash Claims the Life of Teen Pageant Queen Hailed as ‘Pure Sunshine,’ Leaves Three Family Members Injured
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Amelia Palmer, a 13-year-old pageant queen from Boise, Idaho, tragically lost her life in a plane crash in the Bighorn National Forest in Wyoming on Monday, September 1. Three other family members – an 11-year-old boy, a 54-year-old man, and a 53-year-old woman, identified as her brother Aeron, father Earl, and mother Cindy – were also found at the crash site with severe injuries. The devastating incident has shaken the local community and the pageant world, as Amelia was crowned the 2024/2025 Treasure Valley Rodeo Mini Queen.
The Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office in Wyoming responded to reports of the plane crash and individuals in distress at Bighorn National Forest on Labor Day. Working alongside the Sheridan Area Search and Rescue and the Wyoming Regional EMS, deputies were able to locate the crash site west of Big Mountain. The single-engine aircraft was discovered with four passengers, including the young pageant queen who was tragically pronounced dead at the scene. Her body was subsequently transferred to the Sheridan County Coroner for further investigation.
Amelia Palmer’s vibrant personality and passion for rodeo were fondly remembered by Miss Rodeo Idaho Inc., who described her as “pure sunshine” and someone who brought joy to everyone she encountered. Her involvement in various activities like horseback riding, barrel racing, and 4-H demonstrated her love for the outdoors and commitment to her community. Amelia’s tragic passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew her, with many sharing heartfelt tributes and memories of her infectious spirit.
The survivors of the crash, identified as Amelia’s family members, were airlifted to nearby hospitals to receive immediate medical attention for their serious injuries. The coordinated efforts of rescue teams and medical personnel were praised by Sheridan County Sheriff Levi Dominguez, who highlighted the challenging nature of the rescue mission. While the investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, the Federal Aviation Administration has been called in to determine the circumstances that led to the tragic accident.
Friends and members of the community have rallied around the Palmer family in the wake of this devastating event, offering support and prayers for the recovery of the injured family members. A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to assist with medical expenses and other related costs, reflecting the outpouring of sympathy and solidarity from those touched by the tragedy. The loss of young Amelia has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance, with many recalling her vibrant presence and positive impact on those around her.
As the community mourns the loss of a talented and beloved young girl, the investigation into the plane crash continues to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. The Palmer family’s resilience and the outpouring of support from well-wishers serve as a testament to the strength and unity of the community in times of adversity. Amelia’s legacy as a shining light in her community and the pageant world will endure, leaving a lasting impact on all those who had the privilege of knowing her.