Rodeo Star's 3-Year-Old Daughter Dies in Tragic Accident

Kelsie Domer's daughter Oaklynn Rae passed away after a 'freak wreck' involving a horse at the family's Texas ranch.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Rodeo roping champion Kelsie Domer's 3-year-old daughter, Oaklynn Rae, died on February 19 after a tragic accident at the family's ranch in Texas. According to reports, Kelsie was leading two horses while holding Oaklynn when one of the horses suffered a medical emergency, collapsed, and fell onto them. Despite life-saving efforts, Oaklynn did not survive. The family has not publicly commented on the circumstances, but Oaklynn's obituary described her as a joyful child who 'packed a lot in her short time with us'.

Why it matters

The loss of a young child is always devastating, and this tragedy has deeply impacted the close-knit rodeo community. Oaklynn's death has raised questions about the risks involved in raising children around livestock and the importance of safety precautions on family ranches. The outpouring of support for the Domer family highlights how Oaklynn's vibrant spirit touched many lives.

The details

According to reports, Kelsie Domer was leading two horses while holding her 3-year-old daughter Oaklynn when one of the horses suffered a sudden medical emergency, collapsed, and fell onto them. Despite life-saving efforts, Oaklynn did not survive the accident. The family has not publicly commented on the specifics of the incident, but Oaklynn's obituary described her as a joyful child who loved horses, frogs, and spending time with her family on the rodeo circuit.

  • Oaklynn died on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
  • Oaklynn's funeral services will be held on Thursday, February 26, in Dublin, Texas, followed by graveside services on Friday, February 27, in Cherokee, Oklahoma.

The players

Kelsie Domer

A 10-time Women's Professional Rodeo Association world champion breakaway roper and Oaklynn's mother.

Ryan Domer

Oaklynn's father, who qualified for the College National Finals Rodeo.

Oaklynn Rae Domer

Kelsie and Ryan's 3-year-old daughter who tragically passed away in the accident.

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What they’re saying

“Oaklynn Rae Domer, 'Baby Oakie,' 'Oakie' …… the brightest light and the biggest love. In just three short years, you filled a lifetime with joy, laughter, and a kind of warmth that can never fade. You taught us how to live fully, love deeply, and find beauty in the simplest moments.”

— Hope Thompson, Professional Roper (Instagram)

“Your spirit shines on in every memory and every heart you touched. You will always be missed, forever cherished, and never forgotten. Thank you Jesus, for giving us the divine gift of peace knowing we will see Oakie again one day. What's left of my time on earth I pray I can LIVE as BIG and LOVE as PURE as you did sweet girl. Fly high precious Angel 🪽 🩷.”

— Hope Thompson, Professional Roper (Instagram)

What’s next

The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Rope Like A Girl to help others with 'family expenses and scholarships in Oaklynn's memory for rodeo athletes' at Southwestern Oklahoma State University or Northwestern Oklahoma State University.

The takeaway

This tragic accident serves as a somber reminder of the risks involved in raising children around livestock, and the importance of prioritizing safety on family ranches. Oaklynn's vibrant spirit and the outpouring of support from the rodeo community highlight the profound impact she had in her short life.