Note: This story was originally reported in October 2024.
Avery Koonce, a 19-year-old U.S. Air Force Academy cadet from Tyler, Texas, tragically died in her Colorado dorm room on September 4th. An autopsy from the El Paso County Coroner’s Office revealed she passed away from complications of severe pneumonia — a condition experts believe could have been treated.
The report listed the cause of death as paeniclostridium sordelli sepsis complicating parainfluenza laryngotracheobronchitis, a rare but dangerous bacterial infection triggered by a viral lung illness. Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden, after reviewing the findings, explained that Koonce essentially died from untreated pneumonia, emphasizing that antibiotics and fluids might have saved her life.
Before her death, Koonce likely experienced classic pneumonia symptoms such as coughing, fever, and difficulty breathing. The autopsy noted that she had been struggling with a persistent cough for days. Dr. Baden stated that many people underestimate respiratory symptoms, which may explain why she didn’t seek help in time. Koonce was a talented athlete and former high school track star at Thrall High School in Taylor, Texas, known for her impressive sprint times.
At the Air Force Academy, she continued her athletic journey as part of the track and field team. Her parents, Eric and Kelly Koonce, described their daughter as “an incredible bright light in this broken world,” saying her loss has left a void no one can replace. Her story now stands as a heartbreaking reminder of how serious untreated respiratory infections can become.