U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. (KKTV/Gray News) – The U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado launched an investigation after a 19-year-old cadet was found dead in her dorm room this week.
The academy identified the woman as Avery Koonce. She was found unconscious in her dorm on Wednesday night, KKTV reported.
“Academy first responders were called and attempted life-saving measures, which were unsuccessful,” the academy said in a post.
Koonce was set to graduate in 2028 and was a member of the women’s track and field team.
“We lost an incredible teammate last night – 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,” said Lt Gen Tony Bauernfeind, U.S. Air Force Academy Superintendent.
According to a statement from her parents, Koonce brought an incredibly bright light to this broken world.
“Our lives will forever be diminished because of her absence. Avery is truly loved by so many. We have peace in the knowledge Avery is in the arms of her Heavenly Father and we will be with her again. Avery was not a perfect person but was a perfect daughter,” her family said.
Her family continued saying, “We are beyond blessed for the 19 amazing years we got to call Avery ours. We are praying for all of those that are bearing the incredible darkness of her loss.”
Koonce’s death is still under investigation.
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