A heartbreaking tragedy has struck a Nebraska community after a well-known family of four was discovered dead in what authorities are calling a triple homicide followed by suicide.
On the morning of May 10, law enforcement responded to a distress call around 9:45 a.m. at a residence near Johnson Lake in Plum Creek Canyon. Inside, officers found Jeremy Koch, 42, his wife Bailey Koch, 41, and their two sons, Hudson, 18, and Asher, 16, all deceased from apparent stab wounds. A knife was recovered at the scene.
According to an initial investigation by the Nebraska State Patrol, Jeremy is believed to have fatally wounded his family before taking his own life.
Advocates for Mental Health
Jeremy and Bailey were known throughout their community and online for their open discussions about mental health. The couple founded a public page, Anchoring Hope for Mental Health, sharing their personal journey to encourage others battling similar challenges. Bailey, described as a gifted writer and passionate advocate, had often written about the complexities of living alongside someone dealing with chronic mental illness. Jeremy, by her own accounts, had survived several suicide attempts in the past.
“She didn’t sugarcoat the realities,” a tribute on Her View From Home said. “Bailey used storytelling to make people feel less alone in their struggles. Her honesty was her strength.”
The family was cherished by many, with Bailey often referring to Jeremy as her “hottie hubbie,” and their sons remembered as intelligent and kind young men. Hudson, the eldest, had been scheduled to graduate from Cozad Community Schools on the same day the tragedy unfolded.
Community in Mourning
Cozad Schools released a statement expressing grief and solidarity:
“We’re heartbroken by the news and extend our love to all impacted. Our buildings will be open for students and staff needing support, and counseling services will be available.”
Holdrege Public Schools also offered comfort to those mourning, opening school spaces for communal grieving and emphasizing unity in this difficult time.
Ongoing Investigation
The Dawson County Attorney has ordered autopsies, and the Nebraska State Patrol continues to lead the investigation, with support from the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office and local emergency teams.
As tributes pour in, many vow to continue Bailey’s mission—breaking the stigma around mental health and reminding others that even in the darkest times, hope must endure.
“Bailey would want her story to be told—not to sensationalize, but to save lives,” the tribute concluded. “She believed hope was always louder than pain.”
