The U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado is investigating after a 19-year-old cadet was found dead in his dorm room this week.
Avery Coons, a 19-year-old senior from Taylor, Texas, was “found unconscious in her dormitory” Wednesday night, and emergency responders attempted to save her life but were unsuccessful, the academy said in a statement. Coons was scheduled to graduate in 2028 and was a member of the women’s track and field team.
“We have lost an incredible teammate… Although Avery was with us for a short time, she made a positive impact on her unit, her intercollegiate team, and her class. Her loss will be felt throughout USAFA,” said Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfried, Academy Superintendent. “Our team is focused on providing support to Avery’s family, Cadet Squadron 38, the track team, and the entire Academy family.”
The Academy added, “Avery, may you find blue skies and fair winds as you rest in eternal peace.”
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Avery Coons was found dead in his dorm room on Wednesday, according to the U.S. Air Force Academy.
According to the Austin American-Statesman, Coons attended Thrall High School, where the district’s superintendent said Coons was student body president and a leader in the National Honor Society.
“She was the epitome of our high school,” Superintendent Tommy Hooker told the paper. “She’s the kind of person you want your student to be, a multi-talented person. Our community is in a state of emotional turmoil. We’re just devastated.”
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A fighter jet is seen on the grounds of the United States Air Force Academy near Colorado Springs, Colorado. (Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
U.S. Rep. Pete Sessions, who nominated Koonce to the U.S. Air Force Academy outside Colorado Springs, also told the Austin American-Statesman he was “deeply saddened to hear of Cadet Koonce’s death.”
Sergeant Major Zigwe Owens demonstrates how to operate an air rifle before cadets begin training at the U.S. Air Force Academy in September 2023. (Reuters)
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“She was a thoughtful and articulate young woman who was well prepared for success at the United States Air Force Academy. … Cadet Koonce was an incredible leader, and her loss is felt by the Texas community and her fellow USAFA cadets,” Sessions added.
