Investigation launched into the death of a US Air Force Academy cadet

Cadet 4th Class Avery Koonce was supposed to graduate from the academy in 2028. In high school, she was president of the student council and the leader of the National Honor Society.

By Charlotte Hazard

Published: September 7, 2024 11:15am

The U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado has launched an investigation into the death of a 19-year-old cadet who was discovered dead in her room on Wednesday.

Cadet 4th Class Avery Koonce, 19, was from Taylor, Texas, near Austin. She was found "unconscious in her dormitory," resulting in first responders taking action.

The attempts to save her were unsuccessful, according to Fox News.

Koonce, who was supposed to graduate from the academy in 2028, ran track on the women's track and field team.

"We lost an incredible teammate... 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," Academy Superintendent Lt Gen Tony Bauernfeind said, according to the outlet. "Our team is focused on providing support to Avery’s family, Cadet Squadron 38, the Track and Field team, and the entire Academy family."

When Koonce was in high school, she was president of the student council and the leader of the National Honor Society.

Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, said on X that there is "an ongoing investigation into her death, and we must ensure that is pursued expeditiously and conducted thoroughly."