19-Year-Old Air Force A
Air Force Cadet’s Death From Pneumonia Deemed Preventable
Avery Koonce, a 19-year-old U.S. Air Force Academy cadet from Texas,
was found dead in her Colorado dorm room on September 4. 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 managed with antibiotics and fluids, adding, “This is not related to any pre-existing abnormality.”
Koonce reportedly suffered from a worsening cough and breathing issues before her death but did not seek treatment.
Experts warn that such symptoms should never be ignored.
A talented track athlete, Koonce’s parents described her as “an incredible bright light in this broken world.” Her death has renewed calls for awareness about the dangers of untreated respiratory infections.
