Tragedy Strikes Nebraska Family on Son’s Graduation Day: Police Investigating Apparent Murder-Suicide
A devastating tragedy has rocked the quiet community of Johnson Lake, Nebraska, as authorities investigate an apparent murder-suicide that claimed the lives of a local family—on what was supposed to be a day of celebration.
On the morning of May 10, 2025, just hours before their eldest son’s high school graduation ceremony, the Nebraska State Patrol responded to a distress call around 9:45 a.m. at a home in the Plum Creek Canyon area. Inside, officers found four family members dead, each with fatal knife wounds.
The victims were identified as Jeremy Koch, 42, his wife Bailey Koch, 41, and their two sons—Hudson, 18, and Asher, 16. Initial reports suggest that Jeremy took the lives of his wife and children before turning the knife on himself.
The family was known in the community for their mental health advocacy. Jeremy and Bailey had co-founded a Facebook page called Anchoring Hope, dedicated to supporting those struggling with suicidal thoughts. In a haunting post just a day before the tragedy, Bailey had written about Jeremy’s ongoing mental health battle, noting his effort to push through the day despite overwhelming exhaustion. “I’m very proud of him,” she wrote, “for working as long as he did and checking a few things off his list.”
The post ended with gratitude for the continued prayers and support from friends and followers—words that now ring with chilling sorrow.
In response to the heartbreaking news, Cozad Schools, where Hudson had just completed his senior year, issued a public statement expressing their grief. “This tragic situation will deeply affect our Cozad community,” they wrote. Despite the unimaginable loss, the high school graduation ceremony proceeded as scheduled at 4:00 p.m., with school staff and counselors available to offer support to grieving students and families.
“We appreciate the strength and support of our community as we come together in care, compassion, and unity,” the school’s statement read.
The Nebraska State Patrol is leading the ongoing investigation, supported by Dawson County officials and Eustis Fire & Rescue. Autopsies for all four victims have been ordered, and authorities continue to piece together what led to this unspeakable act.
A joint statement from law enforcement read: “The Nebraska State Patrol, the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office, Eustis Fire & Rescue, and the Dawson County Attorney extend their deepest condolences to all affected by this tragedy. Our hearts are with the communities in mourning.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available. Call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org for free and confidential support 24/7.
This tragedy is a painful reminder of how mental health challenges can quietly overwhelm even the most seemingly supportive families. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this unimaginable loss.
