The death of Nex Benedict, a non-binary teenager who faced harassment for using the bathrooms at his school in Oklahoma, has sparked outrage and questions both nationally and internationally. The 16-year-old passed away on February 8 after a physical altercation at his school in Owasso, a suburb northeast of Tulsa.
Relatives of Benedict claim that the discrimination and bullying he faced at school led to the fight and ultimately his death. The exact cause of his death remains unknown, but his family is demanding justice, alleging that the altercation in the school bathroom played a role in his passing.
According to school officials, a fight broke out in a bathroom on February 7 involving Benedict and several other students. Although Benedict was able to walk out of the bathroom after the incident, his family took him to the hospital due to his injuries. Tragically, the next day, he experienced difficulty breathing and seizures, leading to his eventual death.
Authorities have not yet disclosed what sparked the fight and are awaiting toxicology results to determine the cause of death. The family has initiated its own investigation into the incident, while police are interviewing staff and students to gather more information. Charges may be filed against those involved in the altercation, with hate crime charges also being considered.
Nex Benedict’s passing has brought attention to the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Oklahoma, particularly in light of recent legislation restricting the rights of transgender individuals. The family has received support from the community, with vigils being held in honor of Benedict across the US. A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $152,000 to cover funeral expenses.
Experts note that bullying and discrimination against transgender and non-binary students are on the rise, especially following the introduction of anti-transgender legislation in the state. School authorities in Owasso have pledged to prioritize student safety and inclusivity in the wake of Benedict’s tragic death.