19-Year-Old Air Force Academy Cadet Found Dead In Her Dorm

A US Air Force Academy cadet tragically passed away last month in her Colorado dorm room, and experts suggest that her death, caused by pneumonia, could have been avoided. Avery Koonce, 19, of Tyler, Texas, died on September 4th, after suffering from complications of a severe lung infection, according to an autopsy report released by the El Paso County Coroner’s Office.

The report indicated that Koonce’s cause of death was “paeniclostridium sordelli sepsis complicating parainfluenza laryngotracheobronchitis,” a rare but potentially deadly bacterial infection that was secondary to a viral lung infection. Medical experts believe this could have been treated with timely antibiotics and other basic interventions.

Renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden, who reviewed the autopsy findings, clarified the nature of her illness, stating, “In essence, she died of untreated pneumonia.” Dr. Baden, former chief medical examiner for New York City, explained that while paeniclostridium sordelli is a rare bacteria associated with severe toxic shock-like syndromes, the viral infection she had likely weakened her immune system, making her more susceptible to the bacteria. “This is not related to any pre-existing abnormality,” he added, emphasizing that Koonce’s condition could have been managed with antibiotics and fluids to address the viral infection.

Before her death, Koonce likely exhibited common symptoms of pneumonia, such as persistent coughing, fever, and difficulty breathing. According to the autopsy, the young cadet had been struggling with a chronic cough, which worsened in the days leading up to her death. Dr. Baden noted that many individuals don’t realize how serious their symptoms are until it’s too late, which may explain why Koonce didn’t seek treatment in time.

The El Paso County Coroner declined to comment on the case, and neither Koonce’s family nor the Air Force Academy responded to requests for further information.

Koonce, a high school track star, was well known for her athletic achievements. She had been a standout sprinter at Thrall High School in Taylor, Texas, where she clocked impressive times of 12.12 seconds in the 100 meters and 25.67 seconds in the 200 meters. At the time of her death, she was a member of the Academy’s track and field team.

In a heartfelt statement, Koonce’s parents, Eric and Kelly Koonce, reflected on the profound loss of their daughter, describing her as “an incredible bright light in this broken world.” They expressed, “Her absence has left an irreplaceable void in our lives.”

Her untimely death has sparked conversations about the importance of recognizing the severity of respiratory infections and seeking medical attention when symptoms persist. While her family mourns, Koonce’s legacy lives on, and her story serves as a somber reminder of how preventable illnesses can sometimes turn fatal when left untreated.

Related Posts

16-pound baby is all grown up – and still famous for his size

When 24-year-old Patricia Clarke fell pregnant in 1983, she had more than just a feeling that her child was going to be on the large side. She’d…

Head lice: How to get rid of them and stop them coming back

Anyone who’s ever dealt with head lice will be painfully aware just how much time and energy it takes to get rid of them. Small wonder, then,…

Grieving family stunned as ‘dead’ baby in coffin grips hand of mourner

Just 16 hours after she was declared dead, an 8-month-old stunned mourners by clutching the fingers of a grieving family member who reached into the tiny white…

Man feeds guests his amputated leg at dinner party

In one of the strangest dinner party confessions to hit the internet, a man has revealed that he once served tacos made from his own amputated leg…

Trump threatens US with rarely used 1807 law

Los Angeles is on fire — both literally and figuratively. Chaos has erupted in the streets with violent riots, mass looting, and officers under attack. President Donald…

Buddy was cruelly set on fire and strangled with an extension cord – but look at him today

It’s truly shocking how cruel some people can be to dogs. These innocent animals too often endure senseless pain and suffering. That was the case for one…