A devastating tragedy has rocked the communities of Cozad and Holdrege, Nebraska, after authorities say a man killed his wife and two young sons before taking his own life late Friday night near Johnson Lake.
According to the Cozad Police Department, forensics teams, and the Denver Homicide Unit, who are assisting in the investigation, officers responded to a distress call late on May 9. Upon arrival at the scene, law enforcement discovered four deceased individuals.
The deceased have been identified as Jeremy Koch, his wife Bailey Koch, and their two sons, Hudson and Asher Koch. Authorities confirmed that Jeremy Koch died by suicide and that his wife and children were victims of homicide.
A Family Devoted to Mental Health Advocacy
The Koch family was known across Nebraska and beyond for their openness about mental health challenges. Jeremy and Bailey were co-founders of Anchoring Hope for Mental Health, a program aimed at raising awareness and reducing stigma around mental illness. Jeremy had publicly shared his lifelong battle with suicidal thoughts and made multiple attempts over the years, while Bailey provided steadfast support as a mental health advocate and educator.
Bailey Koch was a special education (SPED) teacher at Holdrege Public Schools, where she touched countless lives with her compassion, strength, and unwavering belief in every student’s potential. She also served as co-owner of Natural Escapes of Cozad and was a former senior lecturer at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. The couple were high school sweethearts who had been together for more than 25 years.
In a message that now haunts the hearts of all who knew them, the couple had written:
“Our love story consists of fighting suicidal thoughts and attempts publicly so you know you’re not alone. We fight with you. And our God is stronger than this battle.”
Community in Mourning
In response to the tragedy, Cozad Community Schools issued a statement acknowledging the impact on the town and school district:
“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.”
To support grieving students and staff, Cozad Middle School will open at 12:30 p.m. today. Despite the tragedy, Cozad High School’s graduation ceremony will proceed as planned at 4:00 p.m., with seniors asked to report by 2:00 p.m.
The community has come together in an outpouring of grief, support, and prayer. Tributes are pouring in for Bailey’s warmth, passion, and dedication to her students, as well as for the innocent lives of Hudson and Asher, whose futures were cut tragically short.
An Urgent Reminder
This heartbreaking incident is a stark reminder of the silent battles many face and the critical need for accessible mental health support.
If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. Help is available 24/7 through the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or by texting HELLO to 741741 for free, confidential support.
As this small Nebraska community grapples with unimaginable loss, it does so with unity, compassion, and a resolve to honor the Koch family by continuing the conversation they championed—one of mental health, hope, and healing.
