Before her death, Koonce likely experienced classic pneumonia symptoms such as coughing, fever, and difficulty breathing. The autopsy noted that she had been struggling with a persistent cough for days. Dr. Baden stated that many people underestimate respiratory symptoms, which may explain why she didn’t seek help in time. Koonce was a talented athlete and former high school track star at Thrall High School in Taylor, Texas, known for her impressive sprint times.

At the Air Force Academy, she continued her athletic journey as part of the track and field team. Her parents, Eric and Kelly Koonce, described their daughter as “an incredible bright light in this broken world,” saying her loss has left a void no one can replace. Her story now stands as a heartbreaking reminder of how serious untreated respiratory infections can become.