Avery Koonce, a 19-year-old cadet and former Thrall High School student, found dead in her dorm room at the U.S. Air Force Academy

COLORADO SPRING, Colorado — A 19-year-old cadet at the U.S. Air Force Academy was found dead this week in her dorm room, the academy said.

Cadet 4th Class Avery Koonce was found unresponsive in her dorm Wednesday night at the facility, located in Colorado Springs, Colo., the U.S. Air Force Academy said.

“Academy first responders were called and attempted life-saving measures, but were unsuccessful,” the academy said in a Facebook post Thursday.

The academy said the cause of his death was under investigation. An academy spokesperson said Friday there was no update on the investigation at this time.

Avery was a member of the Class of 2028 and was on the academy’s women’s track and field team.

“We lost an incredible teammate last night,” Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind said in a statement Thursday. “Although she was with us for only a short time, Avery made a positive impact on her unit, her intercollegiate team and her class. Her loss will be felt throughout USAFA.”

Koonce was originally from Taylor, Texas, the academy said. She graduated from Thrall High School in 2024.

Texas Rep. Pete Sessions, who nominated her to the U.S. Air Force Academy, remembered her as an “exceptional leader” and “talented athlete” who dreamed of becoming a pilot.

“I was extremely saddened to learn of the loss of USAFA Cadet Avery Koonce,” Sessions said in a statement. “I was honored to nominate Cadet Koonce to the United States Air Force Academy, where she began her studies, planning to major in biology and kinesiology with the hopes of becoming a pilot physical therapist.”

The U.S. Air Force Academy said it is providing support services to cadets, faculty and staff.