Avery Koonce was a shining star, both on the track and in life. Known for her lightning speed in the 100- and 200-meter dashes during her high school years in Texas, Avery’s drive and energy were unmatched. Her passion and ambition led her to the United States Air Force Academy, where she had just begun her freshman year and joined the women’s track team. At just 19 years old, Avery’s future was full of possibilities and promise, ready to unfold with every step she took.
Tragically, on September 4, 2024, Avery’s life was taken in a devastating and sudden way. When emergency responders arrived at her dorm room in Colorado Springs, they found her unresponsive. Despite their best efforts to revive her, Avery was declared dead at the scene. Her fellow cadets, who had found her unconscious, were left in shock and mourning as they grappled with the loss of a bright young woman who had only just begun her journey.
An autopsy later revealed the heartbreaking cause of death: Paeniclostridium sordellii sepsis, which had developed after a viral pneumonia. The condition, known for being rare and severe, resulted from a bacterial infection triggered by a previous respiratory illness. The infection had quickly spread, overwhelming Avery’s immune system at a time when she was already vulnerable due to a respiratory illness she had been struggling with in the days leading up to her death.
This deadly bacteria caused a toxic shock-like syndrome, and medical experts have suggested that with earlier intervention and antibiotic treatment, Avery’s death might have been prevented. The loss of such a promising young woman due to a condition that could have been addressed is both tragic and heart-wrenching.
Avery’s talents and drive went beyond athletics. She was a dedicated student, a cheerleader, a powerlifter, and even a member of her school’s band. At the Air Force Academy, she had plans to major in biology and minor in kinesiology, with the goal of becoming a physical therapist for Air Force pilots. She was committed to a life of service, always striving to help others.
In the wake of her passing, her community came together to honor her memory. A memorial was held at Tiger Stadium in her hometown of Thrall, Texas, on September 12, with around 100 cadets from the Air Force Academy traveling to Texas to pay their respects. Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, Superintendent of the Academy, spoke at the memorial, describing Avery as an incredible teammate whose impact was felt deeply across the academy.
Avery’s family, shattered by grief, shared a heartfelt tribute to their daughter, expressing their profound loss. “Avery was a bright light in this broken world. Our lives will forever be changed because she is no longer here,” they said. “Avery wasn’t perfect, but she was the perfect daughter.” Their words spoke not only to their grief but also to the immense love they had for her and the gratitude they felt for the 19 years they spent with her.
Avery will be remembered not only for her incredible accomplishments but also for the way she lived her life—with kindness, joy, and a deep sense of purpose. In her short time on this earth, she inspired those around her to push harder, love more, and pursue their dreams with everything they had. Though her life was tragically cut short, the impact she made will never be forgotten.
