Warning: This article contains discussion of violence, mental health and suicide which some readers may find distressing.
An 'incredibly beautiful' family of four were found dead in an apparent triple murder-suicide, and several communities have since spoken out.
At around 9:45am on May 10, Nebraska State Patrol were called to a home at Johnson Lake, Plum Creek Canyon.
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Authorities discovered four people having passed away inside the property.
Those dead were identified as Jeremy Koch, 42, Bailey Koch, 41, and sons, Hudson, 18 and Asher, 16.
What have police said about the incident?
The results of a preliminary investigation is that Jeremy allegedly killed his sons and wife before taking his own life, a release by Nebraska State Patrol states.
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All four members of the family were reportedly found with fatal knife wounds and the knife located at the scene.
Who were the Koch family?
A Facebook page details parents Jeremy and Bailey having established a page called Anchoring Hope for Mental Health. The high school sweethearts of over 25 years had been open about suicide publicly to help show others they're 'not alone', alongside trying to raise awareness on the mental health crisis.
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Indeed, a post shared by page Her View From Home details Bailey as being 'a beloved friend, talented writer, and tireless mental health advocate'.
A longtime contributor to the page, Bailey opened up about her experiences while supporting her husband, Jeremy, who's reported as having previously 'survived multiple suicide attempts'.
"Bailey learned how to use words to paint a realistic picture of the complicated fight for mental health. She believed it was about much more than medication or therapy or walks for suicide prevention; Bailey believed change happens through raw, unflinching truth-telling. It’s why she invited us all into her family’s story, time and time again," the page explains.
Praising the Koch family as 'incredibly beautiful', the page notes how Bailey used to call Jeremy her 'hottie hubbie' and how 'brilliant' and 'bright' the pair's sons were.
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One of the sons was reportedly set to graduate from Cozad Community Schools, and school took to Facebook to address the 'tragic situation'.
What has the school community said about the incident?
A statement 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.
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"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 follow-up post, it added: "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."
Holdrege Public Schools also addressed the news, stating the community is 'grieving' after 'a tragic event that has deeply affected us all'.
"Our hearts are with everyone impacted," its statement shared to Facebook continues. "Holdrege Middle School will be open today from 3:00–5:00 p.m. for students and staff who wish to gather, grieve, and support one another. We’re grateful for the strength and compassion of our community during this difficult time."
Where is the investigation up to?
The Dawson County Attorney has ordered autopsies of all four family members, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Nebraska State Patrol is leading the investigation, with Dawson County's Sheriff's Office, Eustis Fire & Rescue, and Dawson County Attorney also assisting.
Nebraska State Patrol's release resolves: "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."
As the Her View From Home post resolves: "Bailey would be the first to tell you her story is not an easy one to hear. But the world needs it. We are honored to share it.
"As we grieve, we know Bailey would want just that one thing from us—to keep sharing her story. To speak for her, because of her. We’ll let her words on mental health and perseverance and faith be her legacy.
"As she liked to say, mental illness does not win. Hope does."
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].
Topics: Mental Health, US News
Poppy Bilderbeck