Cause of death revealed for cadet found dead in dorm at Air Force Academy

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. (KKTV/Gray News) - The 19-year-old cadet who was found unconscious inside her dorm at the Air Force Academy died from a rare bacterial infection, according to officials.

According to the El Paso County Coroner’s Office, Avery Koonce died as a result of Paeniclosridium sordelli sepsis complicating parainfluenza laryngotracheobronchitis.

This is a relatively rare but potentially fatal anaerobic bacteria. Koonce also had a history of chronic cough as well, KKTV reported.

Koonce was found unresponsive in her dorm in September.

She was set to graduate in 2028 and was a member of the women’s track and field team.

“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,” said Lt Gen Tony Bauernfeind, U.S. Air Force Academy Superintendent.

According to a statement from her parents, Koonce brought an incredibly bright light to this broken world.

“Our lives will forever be diminished because of her absence. Avery is truly loved by so many. We have peace in the knowledge Avery is in the arms of her Heavenly Father and we will be with her again. Avery was not a perfect person but was a perfect daughter,” her family said.

Her family continued saying, “We are beyond blessed for the 19 amazing years we got to call Avery ours. We are praying for all of those who are bearing the incredible darkness of her loss.”

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