On September 4, 2024, paramedics arrived at the dorm room of Air Force Academy freshman Avery Koonce. She was unconscious, and paramedics were unable to resuscitate her. It was not immediately clear what caused the track star’s death, but now we have answers.
According to PEOPLE, aa coroner’s report states that Koonce died due to a “relatively rare” anaerobic bacteria called Paeniclostridium sordellii. The bacteria caused sepsis, and it was made worse by an acute viral lower respiratory tract infection. Koonce has been experiencing a bad cough in the days leading up to her death.
Koonce was only 19 years old and in just beginning her freshman year at the Air Force Academy. Earlier this year, she graduated from Thrall High School in Texas. She had been involved in many extracurricular activities including cheerleading, powerlifting, band and cross country. She also graduated with honors.
Track athlete of the year, cross country leadership award, and outstanding girls lifter for powerlifting! Junior year sports banquet ✅ pic.twitter.com/7GCaDbvmMI
— Avery Koonce (@AveryKoonce) May 16, 2023
In her memory, a memorial service was held in Thrall, and approximately 100 of her Air Force Academy classmates traveled from Colorado to Texas to attend the service.
People who attended the service was encouraged to wear pink in Koonce’s memory. During the ceremony, Koonce’s parents were presented with her track shoes.
I am excited to announce my commitment to the United States Air Force Academy to run track & field! I am so beyond grateful for everyone who has helped me along in this journey. All Glory To God! @AF_TFXC @ThrallAthletics @CoachVanecek pic.twitter.com/MKlUMGv2sB
— Avery Koonce (@AveryKoonce) December 29, 2023
In order to attend the Air Force Academy, a potential student has to be nominated by a member of Congress. Koonce was nominated by Congressman Pete Sessions. Sessions told KVUE that Koonce had told him, “I want to be a pilot. I want to fly.”
Hear more about Koonce and what Sessions had to say about his conversation with her in the video below.
