Controversy Surrounds Death of Nonbinary Student in Oklahoma

As calls for an independent investigation grow, the community and students rally against bullying and anti-LGBTQ policies.

The death of Nex Benedict, a nonbinary student at Owasso High School in Oklahoma, has sparked controversy and calls for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding their death.
Body camera footage released by the Owasso Police Department shows Benedict admitting to initiating a physical altercation with other students, contradicting initial claims of being targeted due to their LGBTQ identity.
Preliminary autopsy results indicate that Benedict's death was not the result of trauma, with further details pending toxicology and other tests.
Students at Owasso High School staged a walkout to protest bullying policies and show support for the LGBTQ community, reflecting broader concerns over anti-LGBTQ measures and rhetoric in Oklahoma.
State officials and local schools are under scrutiny as advocates argue that anti-LGBTQ policies have created an environment conducive to tragedies like Benedict's death.