Warning: This article contains discussion of violence and suicide which may be upsetting to some readers.
Authorities are looking into what appears to be a tragic murder-suicide involving a family in Nebraska, discovered on the day one of the sons was to graduate high school.
On May 10, around 9.45 a.m., the Nebraska State Patrol was called to a residence at Johnson Lake, in Plum Creek Canyon.
Upon arrival, they found four deceased individuals, later identified as the home’s residents: Jeremy Koch, 42, Bailey Koch, 41, and their sons, Hudson, 18, and Asher, 16.
According to a statement by Nebraska State Patrol, the preliminary findings suggest that Jeremy may have killed his wife and sons before taking his own life.
A Facebook page reveals that Jeremy and Bailey Koch had established a community initiative named Anchoring Hope for Mental Health. The couple, high school sweethearts for over 25 years, had been vocal about issues of suicide, aiming to help others feel less isolated and to raise mental health awareness.
Reports indicate that all four individuals suffered fatal knife wounds, and a knife was found at the scene.
One of the sons was set to graduate from Cozad Community Schools, which addressed the incident on Facebook, describing it as a ‘tragic situation’.
The statement from the school reads: “Cozad Schools was made aware of a tragic situation that will deeply affect our Cozad community. Our thoughts are with all those impacted during this incredibly difficult time.”
“Cozad Middle School will open at 12:30 today for grieving students and staff. The Cozad High School Graduation ceremony remains scheduled for 4:00 pm today. Seniors should report to the high school at 2:00 pm today.”
“We appreciate the strength and support of our community as we come together in care, compassion and unity.”
In a subsequent message, it further stated: “In light of yesterday’s tragedy, we understand that some students may be experiencing some difficulties. The high school commons will be open for students this afternoon from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. We will have school staff and counselors available for support.”
“We will also have support available for students and staff when school resumes on Monday.”
The Dawson County Attorney has ordered autopsies for all four family members, and the investigation is ongoing.
The Nebraska State Patrol is leading the investigation, with support from the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office, Eustis Fire & Rescue, and the Dawson County Attorney.
The release from Nebraska State Patrol concludes: “The Nebraska State Patrol, the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office, Eustis Fire & Rescue, and the Dawson County Attorney extend condolences to all, across multiple communities, who will be affected by this incident.”
If you or someone you know is struggling or in a mental health crisis, help is available through Mental Health America. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach the Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact GrieveWell on (734) 975-0238, or email [email protected].