News Summary
Ericka Lucas, a former principal of Rolesville High School, died after being shot in Wake Forest, North Carolina. The incident, which occurred on East Nelson Avenue, is under investigation as it appears Lucas was not the intended target. A 16-year-old has been arrested and charged with the shooting, and 18-year-old Dexter Lamont Mills faces murder charges. Lucas was known for her positive impact on students and was commended in her role within the community. The investigation is ongoing as police seek additional information from the public.
Wake Forest, NC — Former Rolesville High School Principal Ericka Lucas Dies After Being Shot
Ericka Ruffin Lucas, 56, died on Tuesday following a shooting incident that occurred on August 29 in Wake Forest, North Carolina. The incident took place on East Nelson Avenue and has prompted ongoing investigations by local authorities.
Details of the Incident
Witnesses reported that the shooting was not a typical drive-by event, and Lucas was not the intended target. The gunfire was meant for another individual, and Lucas was inadvertently injured during the exchange. The circumstances surrounding the shooting continue to be examined by law enforcement officials.
Arrests and Charges
During the initial investigation, a 16-year-old juvenile was arrested and charged with shooting Lucas. Further developments led to the arrest of Dexter Lamont Mills, 18, on Tuesday. Mills has been charged with murder in connection with the incident. Both individuals are facing multiple charges related to the shooting, and their identities are withheld due to age restrictions for minors.
The juvenile previously was charged with assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, indicating a history of violence involving the individual involved in the incident.
Background of Ericka Lucas
Lucas served as the principal of Rolesville High School from the school’s opening in 2013 until 2016. She stepped down from the role shortly after the first graduating class completed their studies. During her tenure, she was highly regarded for fostering a welcoming and positive environment for students.
Following her departure from Rolesville High, Lucas chose to shift her career focus toward spending more time with her family. She also worked at the East Wake School of Arts, Education, and Global Studies, where she was recognized as a finalist for Wake County’s Principal of the Year in 2012.
Educational background includes a bachelor’s degree from Elizabeth City State University and a master’s degree in school administration from North Carolina State University.
Community Response and Support
Lucas’s former students and community members have expressed their admiration for her dedication to education and her positive influence on students. The community showed support for Lucas at a Wake Forest High School football game shortly after the incident, reflecting the impact she had on those around her.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Assistance
Police authorities are actively continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. They encourage anyone with pertinent information to contact the police tip line at 919-435-9610. No further details about the investigation or the motives behind the shooting have been publicly released.
Summary of Key Facts
- Location: Wake Forest, North Carolina
- Date of Shooting: August 29
- Victim: Ericka Lucas, age 56
- Deaths: Confirmed on Tuesday
- Suspects: A 16-year-old juvenile and Dexter Lamont Mills, 18
- Charges: Both facing murder charges
- Previous charges: The juvenile had prior charges related to assault with a deadly weapon
Lucas’s death has brought attention to the ongoing issues of community safety and violence. Law enforcement continues their efforts to clarify the events leading up to the shooting and to bring those responsible to justice.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- ABC11 News
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
- WRAL News
- Google Search: Ericka Lucas shooting
- CBS17 News
- Google Scholar: Gun Violence Education
- News Observer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ericka Lucas
- Wake Weekly
- Google News: Ericka Lucas
Author: STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC
WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER The WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWashingtonDC.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Washington, DC, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and regional news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Kennedy Center Honors, and the Washington Auto Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Washington Board of Trade and Destination DC, plus leading businesses in government contracting and technology that power the local economy such as Lockheed Martin and Amazon. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic landscape of the Washington metropolitan area.
