OWASSO OK – Nex Benedict, a 16-year-old student, passed away on February 8, 2024, following a physical altercation with other students in a school bathroom at Owasso High School in Oklahoma. Nex identified as non-binary and was part of the LGBTQ+ community. The passing of Nex has stirred strong emotions within the LGBTQ+ community and its supporters, leading to vigils and rallies throughout the state calling for justice and reform.
Critics have also raised concerns about the state’s laws that limit the rights and protections of transgender and nonbinary students, including prohibiting them from using the bathrooms that correspond to their gender identity. Nex’s family has enlisted a lawyer to investigate and demand clarity regarding the events surrounding their passing.
What Happened to Nex Benedict?
According to the police report, Nex was discovered unconscious in a school restroom on February 7, 2024, following an altercation with multiple students. Nex was admitted to a hospital and passed away the following day. Details about the suspects or the motive of the fight have not been disclosed by the police.
However, they did mention that Nex’s death was not due to trauma, according to the preliminary autopsy report, and they are still awaiting the results of the toxicology exam. According to the police, they have examined a video depicting Nex both before and after the altercation, with plans to make it public “at a later time.”
According to Nex’s family and friends, Nex was allegedly bullied for their gender identity, and the fight was reportedly connected to the harassment they experienced. According to reports, Nex did not receive prompt medical care following the altercation, and the school allegedly failed to inform the parents until several hours later. The school has been accused of negligence and discrimination, with demands for accountability and transparency from the authorities.
How Have Politicians Reacted to Nex Benedict’s Death?
The passing of Nex Benedict has sparked responses from political figures across party lines, offering their condolences, support, and perspectives on the matter. Presented below are quotes from various politicians regarding Nex Benedict’s passing:
- Vice President Kamala Harris expressed her condolences to Nex Benedict’s family, friends, and community. For the LGBTQI+ youth experiencing pain and fear at this moment, know that President Joe Biden and I acknowledge you, support you, and want you to remember that you have allies.
- White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre emphasized the importance of every young person feeling safe and supported at school. For numerous LGBTQI+ students nationwide, this situation may evoke personal and profound pain. There is always someone available to provide support during difficult times.House
- Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi expressed deep sorrow over Nex Benedict’s death from a brutal assault in their high school bathroom, calling it outrageous and heartbreaking. Extreme Republicans are inciting a dangerous anti-trans movement that is putting our children at risk. It is crucial to oppose anti-trans hate.
- U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan expressed his sympathy for Nex Benedict, stating, “My heart breaks for Nex Benedict.” This situation is something no family should ever have to experience. As the head of the Equality Caucus, I am committed to fiercely advocating for the dignity that non-binary and trans Americans rightfully deserve.
- Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt expressed his condolences over the tragic death of Nex Benedict, offering prayers for their family and loved ones. I have instructed the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to aid the Owasso Police Department in their inquiry. It is important to honor the family’s privacy and the legal process currently underway.
What Is the Case’s Current Status
The Owasso Police Department and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation are currently conducting investigations to uncover the circumstances surrounding Nex Benedict’s death.
Currently, the police are waiting for the toxicology and autopsy results from the local medical examiner’s office to decide on potential charges. The police have obtained a search warrant to search for traces of blood and other evidence at Owasso High School.
The family of Nex Benedict has initiated legal action against the Owasso Public Schools by filing a notice of claim, marking the initial stage of a possible lawsuit. According to the family’s attorney, Melvin Hall, the family is pursuing compensation for Nex’s wrongful death and seeking injunctive relief to protect other LGBTQ+ students at the school.
Hall mentioned that the family is contemplating submitting a civil rights complaint to the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of Education. They claim that the school infringed on Nex’s constitutional and statutory rights.
Future Outlook of Nex Benedict’s Case
The passing of Nex Benedict has ignited a widespread dialogue and a demand for change regarding the challenges of anti-LGBTQ+ bullying, violence, and discrimination within educational institutions. The Human Rights Campaign has called for federal investigations by the Justice and Education Departments into Nex’s death.
The group has called on the Oklahoma legislature to repeal laws that specifically affect transgender and nonbinary students, and to implement comprehensive nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ individuals.
The Nex Benedict case is a poignant and contentious one that has deeply affected numerous individuals. Amid ongoing investigations and unfolding legal actions, there is a collective desire for justice, answers, and reform.
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