UPDATE: The community of Cozad is shaken after the triple murder-suicide of a local family who had shared their mental health story to raise public awareness.

The Nebraska State Patrol confirmed it is investigating deaths of the Koch family in rural Dawson County.

Saturday morning at around 9:45 a.m., the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to a residence at Johnson Lake. Upon arrival, deputies found four deceased individuals inside the residence. All four were residents of the home.

The deceased individuals have been identified as Jeremy, Bailey, Hudson, and Asher Koch. Following preliminary investigation, it is believed that Jeremy Koch, 42, killed each of his sons, Hudson, 18, and Asher, 16, and his wife, Bailey, 41, before taking his own life. All four were found with fatal knife wounds. A knife was found at the scene.

A message from Holdrege Public Schools to parents said “it is with profound sorry and heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the death of one of our staff members, Mrs. Bailey Koch, a special education teacher at Holdrege Middle School.”

The school message went on to say that Mrs. Koch, her two sons, and her husband “tragically lost their lives.”

Many had followed the Koch family’s journey online as the Cozad couple had documented their challenges navigating the mental health system and had been appeared in local media to shed light on Jeremy’s mental illness.

Cozad Community Schools said district leaders were “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.”

The tragedy comes as Cozad was celebrating graduation.

On Friday, a Facebook post by the Koch family said they were submitting paperwork for new treatment.

“We feel heard, seen, and supported,” the post said.

Days ago, Bailey posted, “Nobody ever changed the world by being liked by everyone; and I believe our story can change the world. Whether my husband lives with mental health or dies by mental illness, we will never be quiet. More need to know they’re not alone. Thank you for supporting, praying, and loving us through the mess.”

The Dawson County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Eustis Fire & Rescue, the Nebraska State Patrol, and the Dawson County Attorney.

The Nebraska State Patrol is the lead agency in the homicide investigation. The Dawson County Attorney has ordered autopsies of all four residents.

The investigation remains ongoing. The Nebraska State Patrol, the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office, Eustis Fire & Rescue, and the Dawson County Attorney extend condolences to all, across multiple communities, who will be affected by this incident.

Call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline if you or a loved one needs help.