The D3@th of a Family of Four at Nebraska

A family of four in Nebraska was found deceased in what authorities believe to be an apparent murder-suicide.

On Saturday, May 10, the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call at a home in Johnson Lake, Plum Creek Canyon #1 around 9:45 a.m. local time. Officers discovered the family members — 42-year-old Jeremy Koch, his wife 41-year-old Bailey, and their two sons, Hudson (18) and Asher (16) — with fatal injuries, reportedly caused by a knife, according to the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP).

Initial investigations suggest that Jeremy Koch may have taken the lives of his family before his own. A knife was found at the scene, and the NSP is leading a homicide investigation, with autopsies ordered for the four family members.

The tragedy has deeply affected several communities, with condolences offered by the Nebraska State Patrol, the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office, and local agencies. Bailey, a special education teacher at Holdrege Public Schools, was remembered by her school district, which expressed heartfelt sympathy for the family. The district opened its doors for staff and students to gather in support.

News Channel Nebraska reported that days before her d3@th, Bailey had launched a GoFundMe campaign titled “Jeremy’s Battle: Mental Health Support Needed,” detailing her husband’s struggles with depression over the years. She shared that his condition worsened in 2024 and had led to concerning incidents, including one in which Jeremy stood over her with a knife. She had recently updated her Facebook, expressing hope after he was accepted into a mental health facility.

The community rallied around the family, with local school districts offering support. During Cozad High School’s graduation ceremony, Superintendent Dr. Dan Endorf acknowledged the profound emotions felt by students and families, encouraging them to cherish their loved ones during such a difficult time.