In response to a complaint filed by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the Department of Education has launched an investigation into Owasso Public Schools, Oklahoma. The complaint alleged that the school district failed to appropriately address sex-based harassment during the 2023-2024 school year, leading to a tragic incident involving a student.

According to a letter obtained by ABC News, the investigation comes after student Nex Benedict, a member of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, was involved in a fight with several other students the day before their untimely death. The HRC, along with Nex's family and the wider 2SLGBTQ+ community, are seeking answers and justice for this heartbreaking loss.

Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign, expressed appreciation for the Department of Education's response to their complaint and emphasized the urgency of the situation. Robinson called for swift action to ensure the safety of all students at Owasso High School and throughout Oklahoma, urging an end to bullying, harassment, and discrimination.

Owasso Public Schools acknowledged receiving notice of the investigation and released a statement asserting their commitment to cooperating with federal officials. The district maintained that the HRC's complaint lacks merit and contradicts the facts. They reiterated their dedication to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for students, emphasizing that any form of bullying is unacceptable.

The Department of Education clarified in the letter that opening the complaint for investigation does not imply a determination on its merits. They will conduct a thorough examination to assess the situation in Owasso Public Schools.

The tragic death of Nex Benedict has highlighted the ongoing conversations regarding anti-LGBTQ+ bullying and violence. Nex's family has called for action and answers in light of the bullying they claim their child encountered at school. Authorities are awaiting the full results of the autopsy and toxicology reports to gain a better understanding of the circumstances surrounding the teen's untimely demise.

The state medical examiner's office will ultimately determine the cause and manner of Nex's death. Amidst calls for change, the HRC, alongside approximately 350 local, state, and national organizations, penned an open letter demanding the immediate removal of state Superintendent Ryan Walters. They accuse him of promoting a culture of violence and hate against the 2SLGBTQ+ community within Oklahoma schools. The letter also calls for an investigation into the state Department of Education to assess the actions and policies that have allowed rampant harassment of 2SLGBTQ+ students to go unchecked.

In response to the demand for his removal, Superintendent Ryan Walters denounced the letter, labeling it as a "standard tactic of the radical left" while vowing to continue fighting and not back down to what he perceives as a "woke mob."

As the investigation moves forward, the Department of Education has the task of thoroughly examining the allegations against Owasso Public Schools and determining whether appropriate actions were taken to address sex-based harassment during the specified school year. The outcome of this investigation may have far-reaching implications for ensuring the safety and well-being of LGBTQ+ students in Oklahoma schools.