The city of Berwyn is reeling after a tragic shooting outside Lincoln Middle School claimed the lives of three people, including beloved Assistant Principal Nerissa Lee, 46. The heartbreaking incident, which unfolded late Tuesday afternoon, has left the community shaken, mourning, and searching for healing.
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Beloved Educator Taken Too Soon
On Wednesday, Dr. Michelle Smith, Superintendent of Berwyn North School District 98, confirmed Lee’s death in a message to families:
“It is with great sadness that I announce to you that Nerissa Lee, Assistant Principal at Lincoln Middle School, lost her life in yesterday’s tragic shooting that occurred outside of Lincoln.”
Lee, a respected educator, began her career as a classroom teacher before moving into administration. She was known for her dedication to students and staff alike, greeting children each morning with a smile and staying after school to support them.
“She always had a smile and always made time for the kids,” one former student shared. “She cared about us like we were her own.”
Flowers, candles, and handwritten notes now line the sidewalk outside the school, forming a growing memorial in her honor.
The Shooting
According to Berwyn police, officers responded to the 6400 block of 16th Street just after 4 p.m. Tuesday after hearing rapid gunfire near Lincoln Middle School. Authorities said a man was seen firing a rifle into a parked vehicle before allegedly turning the weapon toward responding officers.
Moments later, the suspect died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The gunfire — described by witnesses as nearly 20 rounds — left three people dead. Alongside Lee, the Cook County Medical Examiner identified another victim as Steven Lee, 54. The third victim’s identity has not yet been released.
At the time of the incident, around 100 students were inside the building for after-school programs. Administrators immediately placed the school on lockdown; fortunately, no students were physically harmed.
Officials Stress No Ongoing Threat
Superintendent Smith emphasized that the shooting was tied to domestic violence and posed no continuing risk to students or the wider community. Classes are set to resume Thursday, with grief counselors available for students and staff.
“This was an unimaginable tragedy, and our focus is on caring for our students, families, and staff as we navigate this difficult time,” Smith said.
Community Response
The Berwyn Police Department issued a statement expressing the city’s grief:
“The impact of this loss is felt deeply not only within the school community but throughout Berwyn. Assistant Principal Lee was a dedicated educator and leader who touched the lives of countless students and staff members.”
Parents, residents, and former students have gathered outside Lincoln Middle School, leaving flowers, cards, and words of comfort. Plans for vigils are underway to honor Lee’s memory and support the grieving families.
A Lasting Legacy
While investigators continue to piece together the details of the tragedy, the legacy of Nerissa Lee is already clear. She is remembered as a compassionate leader, mentor, and friend whose warmth and guidance left an indelible mark on everyone she met.
Her death — along with the loss of the two other victims — underscores the devastating reach of domestic violence and the resilience of a community determined to heal.
As Berwyn begins the long process of mourning, one message rings throughout the city: Nerissa Lee’s kindness, leadership, and spirit will never be forgotten.