Nex Benedict : Oklahoma Police Confirm Nonbinary Teen’s Death Not From School Fight Injuries

By | February 22, 2024

nonbinary teen death high school fight injuries
Oklahoma police nonbinary teen death high school fight injuries.

Accident – Death – Obituary News :

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — A 16-year-old high school student from Owasso, Oklahoma, tragically passed away following an altercation in a school restroom that may have been linked to bullying over gender identity. The student, Nex Benedict, who identified as nonbinary and preferred they/them pronouns, did not die as a direct result of injuries sustained in the fight, according to police reports.

Investigation Underway

Authorities in Owasso are currently conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Nex Benedict’s death. While the cause of death is yet to be determined, preliminary autopsy results suggest that the teen’s passing was not a result of injuries sustained during the altercation.

Bullying Allegations

Nex Benedict’s family has revealed that the student had been facing harassment due to their nonbinary identity. The altercation in the school restroom, which involved three older girls and another transgender student, reportedly left Nex with bruises on their face and eyes.

Family’s Grief

Nex’s mother, Sue Benedict, expressed deep sadness over the loss of her child and highlighted the impact Nex had on their family. The Benedict family is still coming to terms with using Nex’s preferred name and pronouns, seeking understanding and respect from others during this difficult time.

Community Response

Following Nex’s tragic passing, the Owasso community has come together to mourn the loss of the young student. Governor Kevin Stitt and his wife extended their condolences to Nex’s family and called for accountability for those responsible for bullying.

Legislative Impact

Oklahoma’s recent legislative decisions targeting transgender and nonbinary individuals have sparked controversy and debate. From restricting gender-affirming medical care to prohibiting nonbinary gender markers on birth certificates, the state’s policies have faced criticism for their discriminatory nature.

In light of Nex Benedict’s death, the conversation around bullying, gender identity, and inclusivity in schools has gained renewed attention. Authorities are committed to ensuring that justice is served and that incidents of bullying are addressed effectively to prevent further tragedies.

Reporter Philip Marcelo contributed from New York.

Sean Murphy, The Associated Press

.

Oklahoma police nonbinary teen death high school fight injuries result.

   

Leave a Reply