Valeria Mireles, a beloved cowgirl influencer known as "Miss Rodeo," tragically passed away at the age of 20 on Monday, March 10.
Mireles died following a car accident in the northeastern state of Nuevo León, Mexico. Specific details surrounding her death have not yet been disclosed. According to Mexican news outlet N+, her parents have requested privacy during this difficult time and have not provided further comment.
Mireles built a strong following on social media for her cowgirl lifestyle and horseback riding, amassing around 100K followers on Instagram and TikTok. She was affectionately known as the "Mexico Rodeo Queen" and was especially recognized for her skill in barrel racing, as highlighted in her bio.
In the wake of her passing, tributes have poured in from friends, family, and members of the rodeo community. The Mexican Rodeo Federation released a statement, saying, "Valeria was more than a rodeo queen; she was an ambassador of cowboy culture and an inspiration to many young women." They added, "Her smile lit up every arena, and her passion for rodeo was contagious. Although her passing leaves a void, her legacy will live on in our hearts and in the memory of rodeo."
Mireles’ uncle, David González, shared his grief in a statement on Facebook, posting a photo of Valeria. "Niece Ana Valeria Mireles Villarreal, you will always live in our hearts," he wrote. "We will miss you so much."
Her close friend, Cindy, also shared a heartfelt tribute, accompanied by a collection of photos. "I lack words to describe how much your departure hurts us, you leave us a huge void!!! I am grateful that God allowed me to grow up with you and share so many good times, so many laughs, and anecdotes that I will carry with me always," she wrote. "I will carry you in my memory and in my heart with that smiling face and so sweet. Wherever you went, you lit up the room with your scenery and your light."