19-Year-Old Air Force Academy Cadet
Note: This story was originally published in October 2024.
Air Force Cadet’s Death From Pneumonia Deemed Preventable
Avery Koonce, a 19-year-old U.S. Air Force Academy cadet from Tyler,
Texas, was found dead in her Colorado dorm room on September 4, 2024.
An autopsy revealed she died from “paeniclostridium sordelli sepsis complicating parainfluenza laryngotracheobronchitis,”
a rare bacterial infection that developed after a viral lung illness.
Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden explained,
“In essence, she died of untreated pneumonia.”
He said the infection could have been treated with antibiotics and fluids,
emphasizing that it wasn’t linked to any pre-existing condition.
Koonce reportedly suffered from a worsening cough and breathing issues before her death but didn’t seek medical attention.
Dr. Baden noted that many people “don’t realize how serious their symptoms are until it’s too late.”
A talented track athlete and member of the Academy’s track team, Koonce’s parents remembered her as “an incredible bright light in this broken world.”
Her death serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and treating respiratory illnesses early.
