Nex Benedict died by suicide, says Oklahoma medical examiner

Nex Benedict died by suicide, says Oklahoma medical examiner
The coroner’s report indicates that Benedict died from a toxic mix of diphenhydramine and fluoxetine.
CHRISTOPHER WIGGINS
MARCH 13 2024 4:28 PM EST

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Oklahoma has concluded that Nex Benedict, a 16-year-old transgender student of Indigenous heritage from Owasso High School whose death has sparked widespread concern and debate, died by suicide. The medical examiner’s one-page summary report identifies the cause of death as combined toxicity from diphenhydramine and fluoxetine. A full report will be released on March 27, according to the department.

Diphenhydramine, commonly known by its brand name Benadryl, is an antihistamine typically used to treat allergy symptoms. Fluoxetine, widely recognized as Prozac, is a medication prescribed for depression and anxiety disorders.

On February 7, Benedict was assaulted in a school bathroom. Later, Benedict’s grandmother took him to a hospital where body-worn video from an Owasso Police Officer revealed that the teenager had been bullied relentlessly for their gender expression before the assault.

The following day, Benedict was in distress at home and taken to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Benedict's death has highlighted the critical need for increased awareness and resources dedicated to the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ youth.