Non-binary teen Nex Benedict didn’t die from trauma, police say
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Authorities in Oklahoma have revealed that preliminary findings suggest the tragic death of non-binary teenager Nex Benedict, who passed away a day after a physical altercation at school, was not related to “trauma”. This revelation has sparked further questions and concerns regarding the circumstances surrounding Nex’s untimely demise.
Nex Benedict, a 16-year-old student at Owasso High School, tragically passed away on 8 February, just one day after disclosing to their family that they had been involved in a physical altercation in the school’s toilets. The news of Nex’s death sent shockwaves through the community and raised urgent questions about the safety and well-being of LGBTQ+ students in educational environments.
The Owasso Police Department released a statement on Wednesday (21 February), indicating that preliminary information from the medical examiner’s office suggested that Nex did not die as a result of trauma. However, the official cause of death is still pending, pending the results of toxicology and other tests, with an official autopsy report expected to be released at a later date.
In response to the early details surrounding Nex’s passing, the Benedict family expressed deep concern, stating that the information was “troubling at best”. They called for a full, fair, and expedient investigation into the incident, urging authorities to hold any potentially liable parties accountable for their actions. The family emphasized the devastating impact of bullying and school violence, advocating for meaningful change to address these issues and prevent future tragedies.
The events leading up to Nex’s death began on 7 February when a physical altercation occurred in a school restroom on the west campus of Owasso High School. The altercation was reportedly broken up by other students and a faculty member overseeing the area. Following the incident, all those involved were taken to the assistant principal’s and nurse’s office for assessment and parental notification.
Although an ambulance was deemed unnecessary at the time, a nurse recommended that Nex be taken to a hospital for further evaluation. Subsequently, an Owasso school resource officer visited Bailey Medical Center, where Nex was being examined, and conducted an interview with the teenager and their guardian. Tragically, the following day, Owasso Fire Department medics responded to a medical emergency involving Nex, who was rushed to a pediatric emergency room and later succumbed to their injuries.
Sue Benedict, Nex’s grandmother who had adopted them, revealed to The Independent that Nex had been subjected to bullying at school due to their transgender identity. The bullying reportedly escalated following the passage of a bill in Oklahoma banning transgender individuals from using restrooms that align with their gender identity. Sue expressed regret over not fully understanding the extent of the bullying Nex had endured and emphasized the importance of supporting LGBTQ+ youth in educational settings.
Nex’s sister, Malia Pila, emphasized that within the family, Nex’s gender identity was accepted and embraced without judgment. She highlighted Nex’s academic achievements, hobbies, and interests, painting a picture of a vibrant and talented individual who was deeply loved by their family. Sue recounted her pride in Nex’s accomplishments and their bright future full of potential.
In the wake of Nex’s passing, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to assist the family with funeral expenses. The outpouring of support has been overwhelming, with donations exceeding $95,300 thus far. Sue pledged that any additional funds raised would be used to support other children navigating issues related to gender identity and self-expression in honor of Nex’s memory.
The investigation into Nex Benedict’s death continues, with many unanswered questions lingering about the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking loss. As the community mourns the loss of a promising young life, there is a growing call for accountability, justice, and meaningful change to ensure the safety and well-being of all students, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. May Nex’s memory be a beacon of hope and inspiration for a future where every individual is valued, respected, and protected.
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