A young cadet from Taylor, Texas, has been found dead at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado. Avery Koonce, 19, was discovered unconscious in her dormitory on Wednesday night. Despite life-saving efforts by first responders, she was pronounced dead at the scene. The cause of death is currently under investigation. According to KVUE, Koonce was a 2024 graduate of Thrall High School and had enrolled in the Air Force Academy soon thereafter, aiming to graduate as part of the class of 2028.
At the Academy, Koonce quickly became an integral part of the community, being actively involved in the Women's Track and Field team. According to the same KVUE report, she had notably placed highly earlier this year in various track events. Congressman Pete Sessions, who had nominated Koonce for the Air Force Academy, remembered her as a "thoughtful and articulate young woman" who was willing to go the extra mile as a track star. Koonce's academic and athletic achievements had made a significant impression on the community, stirring deep sorrow with her untimely passing.
Remembered fondly by those who knew her, Koonce was described by Sessions as "everybody's favorite daughter in Texas." She was also regarded highly by the Air Force Academy's superintendent. "We lost an incredible teammate last night," Lt Gen. Tony Bauernfeind said in a statement obtained by CBS Austin. "While only with us for a short time, Avery positively impacted her unit, her intercollegiate team, and her class – her loss will be felt across USAFA."
The Air Force Academy is providing support services to help the cadets, faculty, and staff cope with the loss. Chaplains and mental health professionals are reportedly being made available to the community during this difficult time. Bauernfeind emphasized the need to surround the family with care and support “Our team is focused on providing support to Avery’s family, Cadet Squadron 38, the Track and Field team, and the entire Academy family,” he told CBS Austin. As the Academy mourns, the investigation into the circumstances of Koonce's tragic death continues.
