Air Force Academy Cadet from Texas Dies, Investigation Ongoing

AUSTIN, Texas- Avery Koonce, a 19-year-old Air Force Academy cadet from Taylor, Texas, was discovered lifeless in her dormitory at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado. An investigation is currently ongoing.

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Wednesday night, Koonce, a 2024 graduate of Thrall High School, was discovered incapacitated. She was unable to be revived, despite the life-saving efforts of Academy first responders. Koonce was a member of the Women's Track and Field team and enlisted at the Academy shortly after graduating. She was also a member of the class of 2028.

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Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, Superintendent of the U.S. Air Force Academy, stated, "We lost an incredible teammate last night." "The Academy will be profoundly affected by Avery's positive influence on her unit, team, and classmates."

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Koonce was a highly accomplished athlete who achieved notable results in the 100-meter, 200-meter, and pole vault at the UIL Spring Meet earlier this year. Additionally, she represented Thrall High in the UIL 2A State Championships. In addition to her athletic accomplishments, she was recognized with a Congressional Nomination to the Air Force Academy by Congressman Pete Sessions and participated in cross country, powerlifting, and cheerleading.

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In the aftermath of Koonce's passing, assistance is being rendered to faculty, staff, and cadets. No additional information has been disclosed by the Air Force Academy as the investigation continues.

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