Newly Released Body Camera Footage Reveals Details of Nonbinary Teen’s Altercation at Oklahoma High School
In a tragic incident that has sparked outrage and calls for action against bullying, newly released body camera footage shows the events leading up to the physical altercation that resulted in the death of Nex Benedict, a nonbinary 16-year-old student at Owasso High School in Oklahoma. The footage, released by the Owasso Police Department, sheds light on the circumstances surrounding the fight and highlights the urgent need for addressing bullying and creating a safe environment for all students.
A Laugh Taken Too Far
According to the video, Nex Benedict described pouring water on three students who had been mocking them and their friends’ laughter and clothing choices. “We were laughing and they had said something like, ‘Why do they laugh like that?’ And they were talking about us in front of us,” Nex Benedict explained to the school resource officer, Caleb Thompson. The teen stated that they took action by pouring water on the students before the altercation ensued.
A Tragic Turn of Events
Nex Benedict recounted the brutal assault that followed, stating that they blacked out during the confrontation. “I threw one of them into a paper towel dispenser. And then they got my legs out from under me and got me on the ground … beating the s— out of me,” Nex Benedict said. Their friends attempted to intervene, but Nex Benedict couldn’t recall what happened next due to losing consciousness.
Failure to Report
When asked why they didn’t report the ongoing harassment to school administrators, Nex Benedict admitted that they “didn’t really see the point.” However, they did inform their mother about the situation. In a conversation with Officer Thompson, Nex Benedict’s mother, Sue Benedict, expressed her anger and desire for justice. She called 911 after taking her child to the hospital to report the attack.
A Complex Investigation
As investigations continue into Nex Benedict’s death, the Owasso Police Department has stated that preliminary information suggests the cause of death was not a result of physical trauma from the altercation. The exact cause and manner of death will be determined by the State Medical Examiner’s Office. The police department also announced that once their investigation concludes, the case will be forwarded to the FBI for a thorough review.
A Call for Change
In the wake of this heartbreaking incident, Nex Benedict’s family is calling on officials at all levels to address the issue of bullying seriously and prevent further tragedies. “The Benedicts know all too well the devastating effects of bullying and school violence, and pray for meaningful change, wherein bullying is taken seriously and no family has to deal with another preventable tragedy,” the family stated.
A Nationwide Response
The death of Nex Benedict has resonated across the nation, with Vice President Kamala Harris expressing her condolences and support for the LGBTQI+ community. Harris assured LGBTQI+ youth that they are seen, heard, and not alone. Additionally, the Human Rights Campaign has demanded federal investigations into possible violations of LGBTQ student protections in this case. The incident has sparked outrage within the 2SLGBTQ community, leading to vigils and calls for answers regarding Nex Benedict’s death.
A Community Standing Together
Local organizations and advocacy groups such as the Transgender Advocacy Coalition of Oklahoma, Freedom Oklahoma, and Oklahomans for Equality have organized vigils throughout the state and the country to honor Nex Benedict’s memory. These events serve as a way for the 2SLGBTQ community to come together, grieve, and demand justice.
A Commitment to Change
Owasso Public Schools, where the incident took place, has emphasized its commitment to student safety and inclusivity. While declining to comment on the ongoing investigation, they stated that bullying in any form is unacceptable and that they have established policies and procedures to address such behavior.
A Movement Begins
The tragedy has mobilized students and allies, with a planned student walkout against bullying scheduled for Monday at Owasso High School. This demonstration aims to raise awareness about the impact of bullying and advocate for safer school environments where all students can thrive without fear.
In the face of this devastating loss, Nex Benedict’s story serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address bullying and create a safe and inclusive space for all students. As investigations continue, it is essential that authorities take swift action to ensure justice and prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
