Nex Benedict, a non-binary teenager, tragically passed away following an alleged assault in a bathroom at an Oklahoma high school, which has sparked a thorough investigation by the police.
Overview of Nex Benedict’s Tragic Death
Sixteen-year-old Nex Benedict, a bright and spirited 10th grader with a love for nature and video games, tragically lost their life after a school bathroom fight. Nex, who proudly identified as nonbinary and used they/them pronouns, faced bullying at school for simply being themselves.
A Fight, A Fall, A Tragedy
The incident began in a seemingly ordinary school bathroom but ended in anything but ordinary circumstances. After a confrontation with other students, Nex collapsed at home the next day, leading to a rush to the hospital and, sadly, their passing.
The question lingers: was this a direct result of the fight, or the culmination of ongoing bullying? Freedom Oklahoma, an LGBTQ advocacy group, suggests it’s both, emphasizing the physical and emotional harm Nex endured for their identity.
“We understand that people are concerned about this incident and we can assure everyone that this incident is being taken seriously and is being investigated thoroughly,” Owasso Police wrote in a statement.
“Detectives have, are and will be interviewing school staff and students over the course of the next two weeks and in turn will be submitting our investigation to the Tulsa County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution review.”
According to police, they are waiting for the autopsy report to determine if the two incidents were related.
“The Owasso Police Department offers our condolences to the family, friends, fellow students, and loved ones of the deceased student and we will do our best to discover the truth,” the statement concluded.
Nex’s grandparent told The Independent that her grandchild was attacked by three older girls and injured their head. The police were not called to the school.
A Community in Mourning, A Call for Action
The loss of Nex has rallied not just the local community but people nationwide, prompting calls for change and accountability. From the governor’s statement against bullying to the overwhelming support seen in a GoFundMe for Nex’s family, it’s clear this tragedy has struck a chord. Yet, the fight Nex faced in life continues for many, with trans-rights activists and allies pushing back against harmful rhetoric and policies.
Remembering Nex
Nex was more than the circumstances of their death. A straight-A student who loved The Walking Dead and Minecraft, Nex had a deep connection to their Choctaw heritage and a heart full of love for their cat, Zeus. Their funeral, attended by family, friends, and supportive bikers from Bikers Against Child Abuse, was a testament to their impact. Nex’s legacy lives on, not just in memory but in the continued fight for the right to be oneself.
The Journey Ahead
As Owasso and the wider world grapple with this loss, the question remains: how do we prevent another tragedy like Nex’s? The answer lies in fostering understanding, compassion, and above all, a commitment to treating everyone with the respect and dignity they deserve. Nex’s story is a call to action, a reminder of the work still needed to ensure no one else suffers for being who they are. Let’s honor Nex by being kinder, braver, and louder in our support for all.
