The U.S. Air Force Academy is mourning the loss of one of its youngest and most promising cadets. Nineteen-year-old Avery Koonce, a first-year student from Tyler, Texas, was found unresponsive in her dormitory in Colorado Springs. Despite her determination, discipline, and athletic talent, she became the victim of a rare but devastating medical complication: an untreated lung infection that escalated into a fatal crisis.
An autopsy conducted by the El Paso County Coroner’s Office determined that Avery died from paeniclostridium sordellii sepsis, a rare bacterial infection that developed after viral laryngotracheobronchitis—a complication of pneumonia. Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden, who reviewed the case, explained: “In essence, she died of untreated pneumonia. The bacteria is rare and dangerous, but her underlying condition was something modern medicine can treat—if caught in time.”
The findings made the loss even harder to accept. Avery had been experiencing a persistent cough and fatigue in the days leading up to her death—symptoms often mistaken for seasonal illness. Like many young, healthy people, she may have underestimated how serious her condition was. Dr. Baden noted, “Too often, young adults push through illnesses, not wanting to seem weak. But pneumonia is not minor—it can overwhelm even the strongest body if ignored.”
Her sudden death stunned the Academy, where cadet fatalities under such circumstances are rare. Known for its rigorous training and high standards, the institution was reminded that even the most resilient lives can be fragile when illness goes untreated.
Her parents, Eric and Kelly Koonce, released a heartfelt statement: “Avery was an incredibly bright light in this broken world. Her absence has left an irreplaceable void in our lives.”
That light shone long before she entered the Academy. In Tyler, Avery had been a standout track athlete, recording impressive times of 12.12 seconds in the 100-meter dash and 25.67 seconds in the 200-meter dash. Coaches praised her grit, leadership, and ability to inspire others. At the Academy, she quickly earned the respect of peers and teammates, carrying her same energy and humility into collegiate athletics.