by Berwyn, IL – A heartbreaking incident unfolded outside Lincoln Middle School in Berwyn, Illinois, where Assistant Principal Nerissa Lee, aged 46, was fatally shot on Wednesday, September 16, along with two others in a shocking shooting that has left the community in mourning. The tragic event took place roughly 10 miles outside of Chicago and involved a domestic-related situation that culminated in multiple deaths.
A Devastating Day at Lincoln Middle School
According to local officials and statements from the Berwyn Police Department and school district leadership, the shooting occurred around 4 p.m. local time as a man opened fire into another vehicle before engaging law enforcement officers in gunfire outside the school grounds.
Law enforcement confirmed that the suspect subsequently turned the weapon on himself, resulting in his death at the scene. In addition to Allen Principal Nerissa Lee, two other victims lost their lives: Steven Lee, 54, and a third unidentified individual.
Michelle Smith, superintendent of the Berwyn School District, expressed profound sorrow in a Facebook post, stating:
“Nerissa Lee lost her life in yesterday’s tragic shooting that occurred outside of Lincoln. She was a dedicated educator and leader who touched the lives of countless students and staff members.”
The police echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the deep impact on the entire community, not just the school.
Domestic Issues Behind the Tragedy
Further reports from NBC Chicago revealed a grim background to the incident. Nerissa Lee’s sister, Shana Everage, confirmed that the suspect was the husband of Nerissa Lee who had also killed their mother before taking his own life.
Everage shed light on the ongoing domestic conflicts leading up to the shooting:
“It had started ever since, I want to say the tail end of June. And basically, the boiling point would have been [Tuesday].”
She described the event not as a sudden act but the culmination of months of domestic problems, underscoring the complexity behind this tragic sequence of events.
Read Also: 3 Police Officers Fatally Shot and 2 Critically Injured Serving Warrant in York County, Pennsylvania
Community Response and Next Steps
The deaths have deeply affected the Berwyn community and the entire school district. Authorities and school officials continue to offer support to students, staff, and families during this difficult time.
- Immediate counseling services have been offered to students and staff.
- Law enforcement is conducting a thorough investigation into the incident.
- Community vigils and memorials are expected to honor the victims.
This tragic shooting highlights the profound effect of domestic issues spilling into public spaces like schools, a concern for many communities nationwide.
For more detailed information and updates, visit the original report from USA TODAY.
Remembering Nerissa Lee and the Victims
Assistant Principal Nerissa Lee will be remembered as a passionate educator whose commitment to her students and colleagues left a lasting impact. The Berwyn Police Department remarked on the profound loss:
“The impact of this loss is felt deeply not only within the school community but throughout Berwyn.”
As the community grieves, there is a call for increased awareness around domestic violence and mental health to prevent such tragedies in the future.
