On Feb. 8, a nonbinary teenager by the name of Nex Benedict passed away after being jumped in their school bathroom the day before. A tip sent to 2 News claimed that three girls surrounded them in the bathroom, and one of them was “repeatedly beating [Nex’s] head against the floor.” The chances Nex passed from internal head injuries due to this incident are high.
The incident has recently gained major social media traction, especially regarding Nex’s cause of death. According to a report by ABC News, Tulsa Police are yet to release an official cause of death, but have claimed that Nex did not die due to injuries from the fight.
Since Nex’s passing, LGBTQ+ crisis hotlines have seen an increase in calls sourced from Oklahoma by over 500%. The incident has struck fear into the hearts of trans, nonbinary, and queer youth both across the country.
A candlelit vigil will be held for Nex on Saturday, Feb. 23 at the Point A Gallery in Oklahoma. Attendees are asked to bring their own candles. (KOCO)