The US Air Force Academy is investigating the death of a 19-year-old first-year cadet, Avery Koonce , who was found unconscious in her dorm room in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Despite attempts at life-saving measures by first responders, Koonce was pronounced dead. The cause of death is currently under investigation.
Koonce, a native of Tyler, Texas, was a member of USAFA’s class of 2028 and a part of its women’s track and field team. She graduated from Thrall High School in Taylor, Texas, in 2024 and enrolled in the Air Force Academy shortly afterward.
“We lost an incredible teammate last night. 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. Our team is focused on providing support to Avery’s family, Cadet Squadron 38, the Track and Field team, and the entire Academy family,” Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind said in a statement on Facebook .
Texas Rep. Pete Sessions , who nominated Koonce for the U.S. Air Force Academy, remembered her as an “exceptional leader” and “talented athlete” who dreamed of becoming a pilot.