COLORADO SPRINGS, CO – An investigation is underway following the discovery of a 19-year-old U.S. Air Force Academy cadet who was found dead in her dormitory room. Cadet 4th Class Avery Koonce was unresponsive in her room on Wednesday night at the institution in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Despite the attempts at life-saving procedures carried out by the academy first responders, Koonce did not survive. Authorities have not been able to determine the circumstances that led up to the cadet’s demise. Academy authorities stated that Koonce’s cause of death is still under scrutiny, with no additional updates available from investigators as of Friday.
Originally from Taylor, Texas, Koonce was part of the Class of 2025 and was an active member of the academy’s women’s track and field team. Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind has expressed his condolences in regards to her untimely passing.
Bauernfeind remarked that Koonce, although a new addition, greatly impacted her unit, her team, and her class, and her absence would be deeply felt throughout the academy.
Offering support services to faculty, staff, and cadets, the academy has signified its commitment to aid those dealing with the crisis.