By | March 14, 2024

Accident – Death – Obituary News :

A recent report from the coroner has shed light on the tragic death of Nex Benedict, a 16-year-old student from Oklahoma, who took her own life following an altercation at Owasso High School. The report revealed that Benedict’s death was a result of the combined toxicity of two drugs.

It was disclosed that Benedict, who identified as non-binary and preferred the pronouns “they/them,” was involved in a physical confrontation in the girls’ bathroom at the high school just a day before her untimely passing.

Nex Benedict, 16, died a day after a physical altercation with other students at her school in Oklahoma. Photo courtesy of Sue Benedict.

Following the incident, Owasso police acknowledged the initial signs pointing towards suicide as the cause of Benedict’s death but awaited the final decision from the Oklahoma Medical Examiners Office before confirming the same.

Reports suggested that Benedict had been taken to the hospital by a school nurse after reporting harassment by three girls, which eventually led to the altercation in the bathroom. The altercation reportedly began after Benedict threw water on the girls, with recorded police interactions indicating that it was related to her choice of clothing.

After the altercation, Benedict’s mother called emergency services to their home, citing shallow breathing and other concerning symptoms. However, a preliminary autopsy report indicated that Benedict’s death was not a result of injuries sustained during the fight.

Dr. Margaret Coates, the superintendent of Owasso Public Schools, expressed profound sorrow over Benedict’s passing and reiterated the district’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its students and staff.

Following Benedict’s tragic death, communities across the United States came together to hold rallies and vigils, shedding light on the ongoing challenges and discrimination faced by the LGBTQ+ community. The incident has reignited conversations surrounding mental health and the crucial need for support systems.

If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress or having suicidal thoughts, help is available through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, reachable via call, text, or chat. For additional mental health resources and support, consider visiting the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine.

.