Son’s graduation day ends in tragedy as family of 4 die in apparent murder-suicide
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ArchiveFirst published May 12, 2025. It may not reflect later developments.
A Nebraska community is mourning after a man allegedly killed his wife and two sons before taking his own life on the morning of May 10—the same day one son was set to graduate high school.
Nebraska State Patrol responded to a home at Johnson Lake around 9:45 a.m., where they found four deceased family members: Jeremy Koch, 42, his wife Bailey, 41, and their sons Hudson, 18, and Asher, 16. All were reportedly found with fatal knife wounds, and the weapon was recovered at the scene.
Investigators believe Jeremy committed the acts before dying by suicide. The family had previously founded Anchoring Hope for Mental Health, openly discussing suicide to help others feel less alone.
Hudson, their eldest son, was due to graduate from Cozad High School. The school expressed sorrow online, offering grief support for students and staff.
Autopsies have been ordered as the investigation continues. The Nebraska State Patrol, along with local agencies, shared condolences, calling the event deeply affecting for multiple communities.
