TRIGGER WARNING: This post contains information about suicide, which may be triggering to some.
A family of four has died in Nebraska in an apparent murder-suicide, amid a man’s years-long mental health struggle. Deputies from the Dawson County Sheriff’s Department discovered the bodies of Jeremy Koch, 42, Bailey Koch, 41, Hudson Koch, 18, and Asher Koch, 16, in their home at Johnson Lake in rural Dawson County. Sadly, it appears Jeremy Koch killed his family before taking his own life. What should have been a wonderful Mother’s Day weekend ended in tragedy.
According to the Nebraska State Patrol, deputies responded to a call at the family’s home at Plumb Creek about 9:45 a.m. on May 10, 2025. They found all four family members dead from apparent stab wounds. Investigators found a knife at the scene. The incident remains under investigation and the Dawson County Attorney ordered autopsies, but it appears Jeremy Koch was the killer in the murder-suicide.
Prior to their deaths, the couple maintained a Facebook page with 22,000 followers that detailed Jeremy Koch’s mental health battle. Bailey Koch wrote openly and honestly about their life, mental health, and her undying love for her husband. The father of two had reportedly struggled with suicidal thoughts most of their marriage, and he spent years in and out of hospitals and treatment facilities. The couple was looking forward to working with a new team of mental health providers soon.
On May 8, Bailey Koch gave an update on her husband’s health. She wrote he’d fought “suicidal thoughts off and on all day” but was able to get out of the house and work for a bit. The family was looking forward to an appointment the following day at Serene Mental Health in Kearney. Bailey Koch noted that Jeremy was healing from failed electroconvulsive therapy that left him with a physical response “similar to a PTSD panic attack.”
She ended her post with a picture and haunting words.
“Today, my friend at work said Jeremy is lucky to have me…and I get that a lot. But I really don’t see it that way. I love my husband, and he’s fighting a health battle. Yes, it’s been a very long roller coaster of a battle…but isn’t that marriage?” she wrote. “I’m not special; I’m just a wife madly in love with a man whose brain tells him I’m better off with him dead. But my real hubby, when the illness does not hold him tightly in its grasp, knows the truth. And that’s why he fights so hard.”
In a GoFundMe page established to help with medical expenses, Bailey Koch wrote about the family’s excitement ahead of their son Hudson’s high school graduation on May 10. It seemed they all planned to be there to celebrate together, but sadly, they never made it.
Cozad Community Schools gave a statement about the deaths on the morning of May 10, without giving any details.
“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. Cozad Middle School will open at 12:30 today for grieving students and staff,” the message reads. “The Cozad High School Graduation ceremony remains scheduled for 4:00 pm today. Seniors should report to the high school at 2:00 pm today. We appreciate the strength and support of our community as we come together in care, compassion and unity.”
According to her Facebook page, Bailey Koch taught special education in Holdredge Public Schools. The district plans to support its community as its members navigate a profound loss.
“Our Holdrege school community is grieving after a tragic event that has deeply affected us all. Our hearts are with everyone impacted. Holdrege Middle School will be open today from 3:00–5:00 p.m. for students and staff who wish to gather, grieve, and support one another,” the district shared on Facebook. “We’re grateful for the strength and compassion of our community during this difficult time.”
Those who had followed the family’s journey left words of wisdom, prayers, and comments of disbelief on their Facebook page following the deaths.
“Bailey fought and advocated for her husband for years to get the support [he] needed. It shouldn’t be this hard to get help. This was the outcome,” someone wrote. “Those poor boys and this poor family. It’s horrifying and tragic. I’m so sorry to everybody impacted, there are no words that will make this better.”
“You have helped our community so much. You and your family did not deserve this. I hope you all are together again. Rest in Peace,” another person agreed.
Several people condemned the state of health care in the United States.
“Insurance. How horrific that Insurance had to approve him getting help and it ended the way it did. I’ll never understand Insurance dictating medical care,” one commenter shared in disbelief.
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
