Update: 3.14.2024

Additional reactions from President Biden and Oklahoma lawmakers can be found at the bottom of the original story.

ORIGINAL STORY

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – On Wednesday, the Oklahoma State Medical Examiner’s office released its summary findings for a nonbinary Owasso teen that died a day after a fight at school.

According to the ME’s report Nex Benedict died of a combination of a toxic level of Diphenhydramine and Fluoxetine. The ME says the probable cause of death is suicide.

Fluoxetine is FDA-approved for major depressive disorder (for patients eight years and older), obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, bulimia, binge eating disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and bipolar depression as well as treatment-resistant depression when used in combination with olanzapine. It also has several non-FDA-approved indications.

Diphenhydramine – perhaps known most commonly as its brand name formulation Benadryl – is a first-generation H1 receptor antihistamine that is used extensively for the treatment of seasonal allergies, insect bites and stings, and rashes. However, it also has antiemetic, antitussive, hypnotic, and antiparkinson properties.

Reports show three girls were picking on Benedict and some friends and then attacked the teen for pouring water on them.

Benedict told police what happened in a video released Feb 23rd.

Benedict’s untimely death has generated huge support from the local LGBTQ community and allies in Oklahoma. NBC News says Benedict’s name has become a rallying cry nationwide, with advocates around the world drawing attention to the alleged bullying Benedict faced at school.

The full ME report will be released in 10 business days in compliance with state law.  

Owasso Public Schools released the following statement:

This afternoon the Oklahoma Office of the Chief Medical Examiner released its summary report regarding the death of Owasso High School student Nex Benedict. An update on the investigation can be found on the Owasso Police Department’s Facebook page.

The loss of Nex, a member of the Ram Family and the Owasso community, is devastating. We understand that the information released today may bring up additional thoughts, feelings and emotions for students and staff members. 

Because each person may respond differently, the district employs an experienced team of counselors that are available to students and staff every day. Any student who wishes to see a counselor can do so by visiting the counseling office or may schedule an appointment by emailing their counselor. If you or someone you know are in need of support outside of school hours, please dial 988 for access to free and confidential resources 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Additionally, the Crisis Text Line is available for emotional crisis support by texting HELLO to 741741.

As we mourn together, OPS remains focused on the safety and well-being of our students and staff. Let’s continue to lean on each other in the days ahead. 

Dr. Margaret Coates, Superintendent Owasso Public Schools

Oklahoma Attorney General, Gentner Drummond posted his reaction on X, formerly known as Twitter.

My heart is broken over the tragic death of Nex Benedict. The Medical Examiner’s finding of suicide makes me even more concerned that bullying played a role in this terrible loss.Experts tell us that social media, bullying and a host of other factors are fueling a rash of suicides among young people, particularly for marginalized and traumatized youth.

Combating this problem likely means strengthening laws against bullying, as well as increasing emphasis on mental health services. Perhaps most immediately it means rejecting the cruelty of words and actions so often inflicted by other students, adults and algorithms on our youngest generations.

Gentner Drummond, Oklahoma Attorney General

Jill and I are heartbroken by the recent loss of Nex Benedict. Every young person deserves to have the fundamental right and freedom to be who they are, and feel safe and supported at school and in their communities. Nex Benedict, a kid who just wanted to be accepted, should still be here with us today. 

Nonbinary and transgender people are some of the bravest Americans I know. But nobody should have to be brave just to be themselves. In memory of Nex, we must all recommit to our work to end discrimination and address the suicide crisis impacting too many nonbinary and transgender children. Bullying is hurtful and cruel, and no one should face the bullying that Nex did. Parents and schools must take reports of bullying seriously. My prayers are with Nex’s family, friends, and all who loved them – and to all LGBTQI+ Americans for whom this tragedy feels so personal, know this: I will always have your back.

To LGBTQI+ young people across the country – you are loved exactly as you are. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or alone, you can call or text 988, the National Crisis Hotline, and dial the number ‘3’ to talk to a counselor who has been specifically trained to support LGBTQI+ youth.

Statement from President Joe Biden on Nex Benedict

Below is a joint statement by members of the Oklahoma State House of Representatives:

“The tragic suicide of Nex Benedict is a harsh reminder of the power that words have. As public officials and policy makers, we have a sacred obligation to ensure that as we do the work of the people, we do so with respect and dignity. Every human life is precious and created in the image of God regardless of who they are or who they love. We call on all Oklahomans to join us in our commitment to being respectful and deliberate in our language.”

The statement is issued by Reps. Marcus McEntire, R-Duncan; Jon Echols, R-Oklahoma City; Jeff Boatman, R-Tulsa; Mike Osburn, R-Edmond; Mark McBride, R-Moore; Tammy West, R-Oklahoma City; Mark Vancuren, R-Owasso; Lonnie Sims, R-Jenks.