Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Tragic Incident in Edmond, Oklahoma Sparks Nationwide Vigils for Nex Benedict
In a heartbreaking turn of events, more than two dozen individuals gathered at All Saints Episcopal Church in McAlester, Oklahoma, for a vigil in memory of Nex Benedict, a nonbinary teenager who tragically passed away following a violent altercation at Owasso High School.
Organized by the McAlester Rainbow Connection, the vigil was one of many scheduled across the country to honour the life of the 16-year-old Oklahoma student. Nex, who identified as nonbinary and used they/them pronouns, was reportedly attacked by three girls in a school bathroom after pouring water on them.
Community Support in the Face of Tragedy
Matt Blancett, who spearheaded the vigil alongside the Rainbow Connection, emphasized the importance of coming together as a community in the wake of such a devastating loss. Blancett highlighted the significance of holding the vigil in McAlester, citing the murder of transgender man Dustin Parker in 2020 as a sombre reminder of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.
Reflecting on the need for support during difficult times, All Saints Priest Janie Koch underscored the importance of looking out for one another and being mindful of each other’s well-being.
Seeking Justice and Closure
Following the altercation at Owasso High School, Nex’s mother, Sue Benedict, called emergency responders the next day when she noticed concerning symptoms in her child. Despite initially expressing a desire to press charges, she later opted to address the issues with school officials rather than pursue legal action.
A police search warrant revealed that investigators collected evidence from the school, including photographs from the bathroom where the incident occurred and samples for analysis. While the initial autopsy results suggested that Nex’s death was not directly caused by injuries sustained in the fight, authorities are awaiting further tests to determine the exact cause of death.
Nationwide Outpouring of Support
In the wake of Nex’s tragic passing, vigils have been organized in various cities across Oklahoma and other states, including California, Washington, Minnesota, New Jersey, Texas, and New York. These gatherings serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of unity and solidarity in the face of adversity.
As the community continues to mourn the loss of Nex Benedict, the outpouring of support from individuals nationwide is a testament to the enduring impact of their life and the need for greater awareness and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals.
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