The death of Nex Benedict, a 16-year-old non-binary student, has been ruled a suicide by the state medical examiner's office, following an altercation in an Oklahoma high school restroom the day prior. Benedict's passing in February sparked concerns from LGBTQ+ rights organizations and prompted responses from Oklahoma's governor and the White House.
According to Owasso Police Department Lt. Nick Boatman, early indicators suggested suicide as the cause of death, a conclusion confirmed by the final autopsy report. Benedict, who had been bullied at school, was involved in a physical altercation with three girls the day before their death, during which they sustained a head injury.
Toxic levels of two drugs were found in Benedict's system, leading to the conclusion of an overdose as the cause of death. The police did not confirm whether a note was discovered at the scene.
In a statement to an officer at the hospital, Benedict recounted the bullying they and their friends had endured due to their appearance, which culminated in the altercation in the restroom. Paramedics attempted to revive Benedict at their home before transporting them to the hospital, where they later passed away.
The tragic incident underscores the significant impact of bullying and harassment on students, particularly those within the LGBTQ+ community, who may feel that suicide is their only recourse for peace. Organizations like Rainbow Youth Project USA have noted an increase in crisis hotline calls from Oklahoma following news of Benedict's death.
