Oklahoma Governor Urges Transparency in Death of Owasso High School Student
The tragic death of 16-year-old Nex Benedict, a student at Owasso High School in Oklahoma, has sparked a call for transparency and accountability from Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt. Benedict, who identified as nonbinary and used “they/them” pronouns, died on February 8th, one day after an altercation with other students at the school.
Governor Stitt expressed his condolences to Benedict’s family, classmates, and the Owasso community, stating that the death of any child in an Oklahoma school is a tragedy. He emphasized the need for bullies to be held accountable and urged the Owasso Police and Owasso Public Schools to be forthcoming and transparent with the public as the investigation unfolds.
The details surrounding Benedict’s death are still under investigation, and the case has gained national and international attention. The Owasso Police Department served a search warrant at the school to obtain records and process the scene. The investigation revealed that Benedict’s death was not related to trauma from the physical altercation at the school, according to an updated statement from the police.
While the cause of death is still pending toxicology results and other ancillary testing, the initial report from the Medical Examiner indicates that Benedict did not die as a result of trauma. This revelation raises further questions about the circumstances surrounding Benedict’s passing and fuels the demand for a thorough and open investigation.
The tragedy has sparked protests and calls for accountability. Multiple protesters gathered at the State Board of Education’s monthly meeting in Oklahoma City, where State Superintendent Ryan Walters was present. Signs demanding accountability were held up, questioning how many more students need to be beaten before action is taken.
Superintendent Walters expressed his condolences to Benedict’s family and stressed the importance of waiting for more information before passing judgment. He emphasized the need to focus on the security and safety of students moving forward.
The family’s attorney released a statement asserting that Benedict was attacked and assaulted in a bathroom by a group of other students. The family is independently interviewing witnesses and collecting evidence while urging officials to determine why this happened, hold those responsible accountable, and prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
Bullying has been a central issue in this case, and Oklahoma’s Attorney General, Gentner Drummond, emphasized that bullying cannot be tolerated. He called for meaningful change and highlighted the need to address bullying seriously, not just in Oklahoma but across the nation.
Owasso Public Schools has faced scrutiny regarding their response to the altercation. The district denies ignoring disciplinary action towards those involved and maintains that they followed protocol, with a nurse evaluating all students involved. While no ambulances were called, one student’s parents were recommended to take their child to a medical facility for further examination.
The investigation into Benedict’s death is ongoing, and the family has asked for privacy during this difficult time. As the community mourns the loss of a young life, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the devastating effects of bullying and the urgent need for change within schools.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, immediate help is available through various hotlines: Family and Children’s Services (918-744-4800), Parkside Psychiatric Hospital and Clinic (918-588-8888), and the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (988).
