Mexican influencer Valeria Mireles has died. She was 20.
“Valeria was more than a rodeo queen; she was an ambassador of cowboy culture, an inspiration to many young women,” the Mexican Rodeo Federation wrote in a Monday, March 10, statement via Facebook. “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.”
The statement added, “We send our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time. Her light and talent will leave an indelible mark on our hearts.”
Local news outlet N+ further reported that Mireles died following a fatal car accident in the northeastern state of Nuevo León.
Mireles’ uncle David González Morton confirmed the social media star’s passing in a Facebook statement the next day.
“[My] niece Ana Valeria Mireles Villarreal, you will always live in our hearts,” González Morton wrote on Tuesday, March 11. We will miss you dearly.”
Mireles had earned the nicknames “Mexico Rodeo Queen” and “Miss Rodeo” for her frequent social media uploads of her cowgirl lifestyle. She also competed in barrel racing and participated in beauty pageants.
“OK … my little cowgirl I lack words to describe how much your departure hurts us; you leave a huge void,” Mireles’ friend Cindy wrote in a social media tribute earlier this week. I’m grateful that God allowed me to grow up with you and share so many good times, so many laughs and anecdotes that I will always carry with me.”
She continued, “I will carry you in my memory and in my heart with that smiling, sweet face. Wherever you went, you lit up the room with your stage presence and your light. And it’s not a goodbye, but a see you later because in every sunset, in every joy, and every breeze, I will feel you! Your legacy will live on FOREVER. We gained another angel, and heaven couldn’t be more lucky to have you. We’re gonna miss you, little cowgirl!”
In a follow-up post, Cindy noted that Mireles was “forever in our hearts.”
Mireles last posted on Instagram on March 7, sharing a carousel of professionally taken images. Several of her followers have since expressed their condolences in the comments section.
“I can’t believe it, this news left me in shock. Rest in peace, Valeria,” one user wrote.
Another added, “I am very sorry for your loss and I pray to God to give them the strength necessary to endure such great pain. RIP.”