1. Vigils for U.S. non-binary teen bathroom fight
2. U.S. teen bathroom fight tragedy vigil.

Accident – Death – Obituary News :

16-Year-Old Nonbinary Student Targeted by Bullies Dies After High School Altercation

Vigils were held nationwide for a teenager from Oklahoma who tragically passed away following a confrontation at their high school. The incident, which took place in a school bathroom, involved the nonbinary student being subjected to bullying by a group of peers.

Details of the Altercation

The victim, identified as Nex Benedict, a 16-year-old who preferred nonbinary pronouns, was involved in a physical altercation with three girls at Owasso High School. The confrontation reportedly stemmed from bullying directed at Benedict and their friends. The incident escalated when the girls attacked Benedict after water was poured on them, as revealed in a video released by the police.

Tragic Outcome

The day after the altercation, Benedict’s mother called emergency services to their home, citing shallow breathing and other concerning symptoms. Despite initial speculations linking the death to injuries sustained in the fight, preliminary autopsy results indicated otherwise.

Nationwide Mourning

Vigils in memory of Benedict were organised in various cities across the country, including Boston, Minneapolis, New York, and Huntington Beach, California. LGBTQ+ groups spearheaded many of these gatherings to denounce the persistent bullying faced by nonbinary individuals, with Benedict’s family confirming their child had been a victim of bullying at school.

Community Response

During a vigil in Huntington Beach, Kanan Durham, the executive director of Pride at the Pier, emphasised the importance of honouring Benedict’s memory beyond a singular event. The tragedy has reignited a sense of determination within the LGBTQ+ community to combat bullying and promote inclusivity.

Support and Advocacy

Sanj Cooper, from TahlEquality, stressed the need for mental health support within the LGBT+ community, particularly in regions where discrimination and prejudice are prevalent. Cooper expressed a renewed commitment to advocacy and activism in the wake of Benedict’s passing.

Continued Vigilance

In McAlester, Oklahoma, a vigil organised by the McAlester Rainbow Connection served as a reminder of the importance of community solidarity. Matt Blancett, a member of the LGBTQ+ group, highlighted the need for visibility and support in the face of adversity.

Police Investigation

Despite ongoing investigations, authorities have refrained from disclosing the exact cause of Benedict’s death pending further tests. The police department has conducted a thorough search at the school premises where the altercation occurred, gathering evidence and statements from those involved.

Conclusion

The untimely passing of Nex Benedict has sparked a wave of reflection and action within communities nationwide. As the investigation unfolds, the memory of the 16-year-old serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by nonbinary individuals and the collective responsibility to create a safer, more inclusive environment for all.

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– Vigils held for U.S. non-binary teen
– Vigils held following school bathroom fight.