Non-binary Teen Nex Benedict Death Ruled a Suicide After School Altercation – The tragic death of 16-year-old non-binary student Nex Benedict, who was bullied and injured in a school fight, has been ruled a suicide by overdose, the Oklahoma State Medical Examiner’s office announced. Benedict, a student at Owasso High School, died on February 8, one day after a confrontation with three girls in a school restroom. The incident sparked national attention and outrage, leading to vigils and protests across the country.
The autopsy report revealed that Benedict had toxic levels of Diphenhydramine and Fluoxetine in their system, leading to their death by overdose. Diphenhydramine, commonly known as Benadryl, is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms, while Fluoxetine, found in Prozac, is an antidepressant approved for treating depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.
Benedict was conscious and alert after the fight on February 7, when they told police about the attack by the three girls. The girls had reportedly been picking on Benedict and their friends due to their appearance. In response to the incident, Benedict poured water on the girls, which led to a physical altercation. Benedict was treated for minor injuries at a local hospital before being released. However, they were rushed back to the hospital the following day and later died.
The incident has drawn attention to the broader issue of bullying and harassment among students, particularly those who do not identify strictly as male or female. Brandon Dilawari, a case manager at Rainbow Youth Project USA, highlighted that bullying and harassment significantly impact students, and many youths believe suicide is their only option for peace. The death of Nex Benedict has not been an isolated incident, with a dramatic spike in calls from Oklahoma to the national crisis hotline of Rainbow Youth Project USA following the news of Benedict’s death.
In response to the incident, Owasso Public Schools released a statement expressing their condolences and providing information on counseling resources and crisis hotlines for students and staff. The school district remains focused on the safety and well-being of its students and staff, emphasizing the importance of leaning on each other during this difficult time.
The Owasso Police Department, which observed many indications that Benedict’s death was the result of suicide, has not confirmed the cause of death without the final results from the Oklahoma Medical Examiners Office. A complete autopsy report will be released in 10 days in accordance with state law.
The case has also prompted a federal investigation into Owasso Public Schools for potential discrimination related to Benedict’s death. The Department of Education is looking into whether school officials failed to “appropriately respond” to allegations of sex- and disability-based discrimination at the school.
The tragic death of Nex Benedict serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing bullying, harassment, and discrimination in schools, as well as the need for increased mental health services and support for LGBTQ+ youth.
What was the reason for the girls’ bullying of Nex Benedict?
The reason for the girls’ bullying of Nex Benedict was not explicitly detailed in the provided sources. However, it is implied that the bullying was related to Nex’s gender identity and appearance. Nex, a non-binary student, was reportedly bullied at school due to their gender identity and the way they dressed. The bullying escalated to a physical altercation in the school bathroom, where Nex poured water on the girls bullying them, leading to a fight. This incident was a significant factor in the tragic events that followed, highlighting the broader issue of bullying and harassment, particularly among students who do not identify strictly as male or female.
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