Owasso, Oklahoma – A decision has been made not to file charges in connection with the fight that took place the day before the tragic suicide of Nex Benedict, a nonbinary high school student from Oklahoma. District Attorney Stephen Kunzweiler of Tulsa County announced the conclusion of his investigation on Thursday, stating that the altercation in the high school bathroom appeared to be a case of mutual combat.
Furthermore, Kunzweiler revealed that Oswasso police officers found some brief writings by Nex that seemed to be linked to the suicide, though they did not reference the prior fight or any school-related challenges. The content of these notes will remain undisclosed at this time. Nex, who identified as transgender and used both he and they pronouns, had reportedly faced bullying at school due to their gender identity.
All individuals involved in the physical altercation were minors, leading the DA to determine that if charges were warranted, they would be processed as a juvenile delinquent case in court. However, Kunzweiler expressed his belief that the state would not be able to meet the necessary burden of proof to prosecute the case successfully.
Despite the lack of criminal charges, the circumstances surrounding Nex’s death following the fight on February 7 at Owasso High School West Campus have raised concerns. Video footage from the hospital interview showed Nex recounting being attacked by three students who allegedly bullied him and a friend over their clothing choices. Nex’s mother had taken him to the hospital after the fight, where he later tragically died by suicide on February 8.
The series of events leading up to Nex’s death, including the altercation and subsequent suicide, have prompted calls for reforms to address bullying in schools. Nex’s family has urged educational institutions, administrators, and legislators to come together to create a more inclusive and respectful environment aimed at eradicating bullying and intolerance.
In response to Nex’s passing, Kunzweiler acknowledged the profound impact of suicide as a national crisis, emphasizing the need for increased resources and support for individuals struggling with mental health challenges. While the reasons behind suicide may remain elusive to those left behind, efforts to prevent such tragedies are crucial in combating the growing crisis.