Tragedy Strikes Oklahoma High School: Student’s Death Investigated Following Altercation Over Gender Identity
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the community of Owasso, a suburban Tulsa community in Oklahoma, is left devastated following the death of 16-year-old Nex Benedict. The high school student passed away just a day after being involved in an altercation in a school restroom, which may have been triggered by bullying related to their gender identity. While the cause of death is yet to be determined, preliminary autopsy results indicate that Nex did not die as a direct result of injuries sustained in the fight.
The incident has sparked an investigation by the Owasso police, who are working diligently to uncover the truth behind this tragedy. Lieutenant Nick Boatman shared that detectives are currently interviewing both staff and students at the school to gain a deeper understanding of what transpired on that fateful day.
The family of Nex Benedict released a statement through their attorney, shedding light on the harassment their child faced due to their nonbinary identity. “While at Owasso High School, Nex was attacked and assaulted in a bathroom by a group of other students,” the family stated. The loss of their beloved child has left them mourning and seeking justice for the pain their child endured.
According to Nex’s mother, Sue Benedict, her child suffered visible bruises on their face and eyes as a result of the altercation. She expressed her shock and sorrow over the extent of the violence inflicted upon her child. Nex’s sister, Malia Pila, described their sibling as a remarkable individual whose impact on their lives cannot be adequately articulated.
The tragedy has not only affected Nex’s family but also raised concerns about the safety and well-being of students within the school community. School officials in Owasso released a statement confirming that a physical altercation took place in the restroom, lasting less than two minutes before it was broken up by fellow students and a staff member. Following the fight, each student was able to walk to the assistant principal’s office and nurse’s office unassisted.
The police were not notified of the incident until Nex arrived at the hospital, where a report was subsequently filed. The investigation into the altercation will be handed over to the local district attorney to determine if any charges should be filed. Lieutenant Boatman asserted that all crimes and charges will be considered, including the possibility of hate crime charges.
The tragic loss of Nex Benedict has shed light on the broader issue of discrimination against transgender and nonbinary individuals in Oklahoma. In recent years, the state’s Republican-led Legislature has passed various laws targeting this community, including bills that restrict gender-affirming medical care for children and prohibit nonbinary gender markers on birth certificates. The governor of Oklahoma, Kevin Stitt, expressed his condolences and emphasized the need for accountability in cases of bullying.
Critics argue that these legislative actions contribute to an unsafe environment for transgender youth. The ACLU Oklahoma released a statement condemning discriminatory policies and hateful rhetoric that deny young individuals like Nex the future they deserve. They believe that such policies make schools less safe for marginalized individuals.
The tragedy also brings attention to Oklahoma’s Superintendent of Public Schools, Ryan Walters, who has faced criticism for promoting anti-trans policies. Walters appointed a right-wing social media influencer known for posting anti-trans rhetoric to a state library panel, causing bipartisan backlash. The incident highlighted the damaging effects of discriminatory actions by state officials.
As the investigation into Nex Benedict’s death continues, the community of Owasso mourns the loss of a bright and cherished individual. They hope that justice will prevail, and this tragedy will serve as a wake-up call to address the pressing issue of discrimination against transgender and nonbinary individuals in their community and beyond.
