Air Force Academy cadet Avery Koonce’s cause of death revealed months after tragic dorm passing
The 19-year-old athlete and freshman’s sudden death shocked her community—now the medical truth behind her passing offers answers, and heartbreak.
Avery Koonce, a 19-year-old Air Force Academy cadet and star athlete from Texas, died suddenly in her dorm room in September 2024. After months of uncertainty, an autopsy has confirmed she died from pneumonia complications caused by a rare bacterial infection.
Avery Koonce was just starting a new chapter of her life. After excelling in sports and academics at Thrall High School in Texas, she joined the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, where she was a freshman and a member of the women’s track team.
But on September 4, 2024, her future came to a tragic halt. Fellow cadets found Avery unresponsive in her dorm room. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but she could not be revived. There were no visible injuries, and her cause of death was initially unknown.
Her passing left classmates, teachers, and loved ones stunned—and searching for answers.
A rare and deadly infection
In April 2025, the El Paso County Coroner’s Office released the final autopsy results. According to multiple reports, Avery died from a rare bacterial infection known as Paeniclostridium sordellii sepsis, which complicated a case of parainfluenza laryngotracheobronchitis—a severe viral infection of the lungs.
This unusual combination of viral and bacterial infections triggered a chain reaction in her body, leading to untreated pneumonia, toxic shock-like symptoms, and ultimately, her death.
“For all medical purposes, she died of pneumonia that wasn’t treated in time,” said forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden in an interview with IBT. “If antibiotics had been given earlier, it’s possible her life could have been saved.”
The bacteria, which is extremely rare but very aggressive, was found in Avery’s blood and left lung. It often goes unnoticed until it’s too late.
Signs were there, but danger wasn’t clear
In the days before her death, Avery had been battling a harsh cough, likely caused by the parainfluenza virus. This viral infection weakened her immune system, giving the dangerous bacteria a chance to attack.
Sadly, it appears Avery may not have realized how serious her illness had become. Without proper medical treatment, her body was overwhelmed by the infection.
This tragic case highlights how easily even healthy young adults can be caught off guard by respiratory infections—and the importance of taking symptoms like fever, cough, or trouble breathing seriously.
Avery wasn’t just a talented runner—she was a vibrant, high-achieving student with big dreams. At Thrall High School, she was involved in cheerleading, powerlifting, band, and cross country, all while maintaining strong grades.
She hoped to major in biology and minor in kinesiology at the academy, with plans to become a physical therapist for Air Force pilots.
“She was an incredibly bright light in this broken world,” her family said in a heartfelt statement shared by the Air Force Academy. “We are beyond blessed for the 19 amazing years we got to call Avery ours.”
Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, the USAFA Superintendent, also paid tribute to her legacy: “We lost an incredible teammate. Avery made a deep impact on her squadron, her team, and her classmates in the short time she was with us.”
A memorial service held in her Texas hometown brought together friends, family, and more than 100 classmates who traveled from Colorado to honor her life.
Avery’s death is not only a heartbreaking personal loss—it’s a reminder of how vulnerable even the healthiest people can be to silent but deadly infections. It also raises awareness about the importance of listening to our bodies and seeking medical care when something doesn’t feel right.
Her story leaves a powerful message: don’t ignore serious symptoms, especially when it comes to breathing and respiratory health.
Though Avery’s time on Earth was short, the joy, dedication, and love she brought into the world won’t be forgotten. Her legacy lives on through the lives she touched, the teammates she inspired, and the dreams she pursued with passion.
As her family expressed, Avery may be gone, but the light she shared continues to shine: “We have peace in the knowledge Avery is in the arms of her Heavenly Father… Loving on her brothers and learning how to live with Avery’s loss is our only focus right now.”
Rest in peace, Cadet Avery Koonce. Your strength, spirit, and smile will be remembered always.
