Wyoming coroner releases autopsy results on team roper Cresta

Posted: Sep 19, 2012 7:26 AM by Q2 Sports
Updated: Sep 19, 2012 7:26 AM

Laramie, Wyoming, County Coroner Martin Luna has released autopsy results on the July 28 death of Wrangler National Finals Rodeo heeler Broc Cresta, 25, at the 2012 Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo.

"My brother's death was a tragic accident," said Broc's older brother, Brent, 28. "Broc took his own prescription pain medication, and combined with alcohol and a climate he wasn't used to, it caused the perfect storm. He went to sleep and never woke up."

"The world of professional rodeo lost a talented young cowboy and a fine young man the day Broc Cresta died," said Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Commissioner Karl Stressman. "He left an impressive mark in his quarter century on this earth, and he will not be forgotten."
Cresta was found dead in his living quarters trailer at Frontier Days Rodeo.

The 2007 PRCA/Resistol Rookie Heeler of the Year roped at the last two NFRs. He and reigning World Champion Header Turtle Powell placed in five of 10 rounds at the 2010 NFR. Cresta heeled for boyhood buddy Spencer Mitchell at last December's NFR. After placing in three rounds the lifelong team saved it's best for last by sharing the 3.6-second round-10 win with Chad Masters and Jade Corkill.

Cresta, who called Petaluma, Calif., home, was ranked 12th in the world team roping heeling standings. Among his many career highlights was the win at the Daddy of 'em All in Cheyenne with Logan Olson in 2008.

"The whole rodeo world is in shock," said PRCA Director of Communications Kendra Santos immediately after Cresta's death. "Broc's a fourth-generation cowboy in California, and everybody loved him. It's hard enough to lose a good cowboy when he's 90, but losing such a talented and genuinely good person at 25 is just about impossible. Our hearts are with Broc's family and friends. The entire rodeo family hurts right now."