COLORADO SPRINGS, CO – The United States Air Force Academy in Colorado is currently conducting an investigation following the death of a 19-year-old cadet in her dorm room. The cadet, Avery Koonce, a native of Taylor, Texas, was discovered unconscious in her dormitory on Wednesday evening. Despite the immediate life-saving efforts of first responders, Koonce did not survive.
Koonce, a Cadet 4th Class, was on track to graduate in 2028. She was also a valued member of the women’s track and field team at the Academy. The Academy’s Superintendent, Lt Gen Tony Bauernfeind, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating that Koonce had made a positive impact on her unit, her sports team, and her class during her short time at the Academy.
Bauernfeind further stated that the Academy’s focus is now on providing support to Koonce’s family, her fellow cadets in Squadron 38, the track and field team, and the entire Academy community. The Academy also expressed a heartfelt farewell to Koonce, wishing her “blue skies and tailwinds” in her eternal rest.
Prior to her time at the Academy, Koonce attended Thrall High School in Texas. The district’s superintendent, Tommy Hooker, described her as the embodiment of their high school. She served as the president of the student council and led the National Honor Society. Hooker expressed the community’s devastation over the loss, stating that Koonce was the ideal well-rounded student.
U.S. Representative Pete Sessions, who nominated Koonce for the U.S. Air Force Academy, expressed his sadness over her passing. He described Koonce as a thoughtful, articulate young woman who was well-prepared for success at the Academy. He further stated that her loss is deeply felt by her community in Texas and her fellow cadets at the Academy.
The investigation into Koonce’s death is ongoing, and further details will be released as they become available.