Bates County girl, 12, dies after being pinned under horse at rodeo

A 12-year-old girl who was injured during a weekend rodeo in Adrian, Mo., has died.

Authorities say Kalee Chandler got pinned under her horse after she completed her barrel racing event Saturday evening.

“At the end of the run, the horse had a medical issue and hit the fence,” said Sheriff Chad Anderson of Bates County. The horse fell on Kalee.

Media reports indicate that the horse — which also died — had a heart attack.

Kalee attended Butler schools and was enjoying her first weekend of summer. She had just finished sixth grade and was headed into middle school next year.

Counselors are on hand for students and teachers in summer school, which started this week, said Superintendent Darin Carter.

“Everybody is very somber right now,” Carter said. “It’s a horrible tragedy that is going to stick with our school district and our community for a long time.”

In photos on social media, Kalee is shown playing basketball, making funny faces, swimming with friends and riding horses.

“She was excellent in everything she did,” said Anderson. “Always had a smile on her face.”

Members of the community have posted messages on social media. Many include #cowgirlupforKalee. One woman wrote: “R.I.P sweet, funny, girl! May you light up the heavens like you did here on earth!!”

A fund, the Kalee Chandler Love Fund, has been established for the family to help with medical and other expenses. Donations can be dropped off at Community First Bank in Butler, 915 W. Fort Scott St., or mailed to P.O. Box 407, Butler, MO 64730.

This story was originally published May 24, 2016 at 11:23 AM with the headline "Bates County girl, 12, dies after being pinned under horse at rodeo."