DA determines no charges will be filed in altercation with Oklahoma teen Nex Benedict

The district attorney investigating the case of Nex Benedict, a nonbinary high school student who died by suicide in Oklahoma, announced that no charges will be filed in connection with the fight that happened the day before Nex’s death. The fight in the high school bathroom was deemed an “instance of mutual combat” and all students involved were minors. Nex’s mother reported the fight to the hospital and police, with Nex later revealing that he was being bullied at school for his gender identity. The medical examiner’s report showed that Nex’s death was not trauma-related but may have been connected to the fight. Nex’s family called for reforms to end bullying in schools.

According to the district attorney’s office, the fight at Owasso High School involved two groups of students who antagonized each other, leading to the altercation in the bathroom. It was reported that Nex had visible injuries consistent with the fight but none were determined to have caused his death. The medical examiner’s report indicated that Nex died from “combined toxicity” from two drugs that were legally available in his home. The district attorney stated that he did not have enough evidence to pursue charges in the case, which would have been handled as a delinquent child cause of action in juvenile court.

Nex’s family called on schools, administrators, and lawmakers to work together on reforms that aim to end bullying and promote respect, inclusion, and grace in school environments. The family emphasized the need for change to prevent further instances of bullying and hate that can lead to tragic outcomes like Nex’s death. The district attorney described Nex’s death as a “tragedy” and highlighted the importance of addressing the issue of suicide with sufficient resources and support. The release included resources for those in crisis, including the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which can be reached by calling or texting 988, and support for LGBTQ youth through the TrevorLifeline and the Rainbow Youth Project.

Despite the visible injuries from the fight, the medical examiner’s report indicated that they did not contribute to Nex’s death, which was caused by combined toxicity from two drugs. The fight between the students at Owasso High School was not determined to be the direct cause of Nex’s suicide, though it was being investigated as a possible factor. Nex’s history of being bullied for their gender identity was mentioned by his mother and reportedly contributed to the altercation in the school bathroom. The lack of charges being filed in connection with the fight left unanswered questions for Nex’s family and the community as they seek closure and understanding of the circumstances leading to his death by suicide.

In light of Nex Benedict’s tragic death, his family’s call for reforms to address bullying and promote respectful, inclusive school environments highlights the need for systemic changes to prevent similar incidents in the future. The district attorney’s decision not to file charges in connection with the fight that preceded Nex’s suicide reflected the lack of evidence to support prosecution. The medical examiner’s report provided insight into the circumstances surrounding Nex’s death, but ultimately left unresolved questions about the connection between the fight and his suicide. The focus on suicide prevention and support for those in crisis underscore the importance of addressing mental health and providing resources for individuals facing suicidal thoughts or feelings, particularly within the LGBTQ community.