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Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Nex Benedict, the 16-year-old Oklahoma student who tragically passed away one day after a confrontation in a high school bathroom, has been determined to have died by suicide, according to the state’s medical examiner.
The heartbreaking summary report disclosed that Benedict, who identified as nonbinary and preferred they/them pronouns, succumbed to the combined toxicity of two different medications.
Investigation Confirms Suicide
The Owasso Police Department released a statement affirming the findings of the medical examiner, stating that from the start of the investigation, there were clear indications that Benedict’s death was a result of suicide. However, the confirmation was awaited from the Oklahoma Medical Examiners Office.
On the day before their untimely passing, Benedict was involved in a physical altercation in the girls’ bathroom at Owasso High School. Following the incident, a school nurse sent Benedict to the hospital, where they reported being harassed by three girls. Benedict retaliated by throwing water at the girls, leading to the altercation.
During a video recording of the incident, one of the officers is heard asking Benedict about the altercation, to which Benedict responded, “Yeah, because of the way that we dress.”
Tragic Circumstances
Following the altercation, Benedict’s mother called emergency services to their home the next day, reporting shallow breathing, rolling eyes, and curled hands. Despite initial speculation, a preliminary autopsy report ruled out injuries from the fight as the cause of death.
The news of Benedict’s death sparked vigils and rallies across the United States, from New York to Los Angeles, with organisers highlighting the ongoing dangers and persecution faced by the LGBTQ+ community.
If you or someone you know is struggling with emotional distress or a suicidal crisis, you can contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or chat with them online.
Remembering Nex Benedict
The tragic loss of Nex Benedict serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and discrimination that the LGBTQ+ community continues to endure. Their story has touched the hearts of many, prompting reflection and calls for greater acceptance and support for all individuals.
—This article was written by S. Dev, a news editor for CBSNews.com.
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