News Summary
The Wake Forest Police Department is probing the fatal shooting of Ericka Lucas, a former educator, who died following a violent incident. Police confirm she was not the intended target. Two suspects, including an 18-year-old and a 16-year-old minor, have been charged with murder. Authorities are seeking witnesses and additional evidence to clarify the circumstances surrounding the event. Lucas was a highly regarded educator known for her commitment to student welfare, and her death has provoked community expressions of grief and respect.
Wake Forest
Investigation Continues Following Fatal Shooting That Claimeda Former Educator’s Life
The Wake Forest Police Department is investigating a fatal shooting that resulted in the death of Ericka Lucas, a well-respected former educator and principal in Wake County. The incident occurred on August 29, 2025, on East Nelson Avenue. Ms. Lucas, aged 56, sustained critical injuries during the incident and succumbed to her wounds shortly afterward.
Details of the Shooting and Current Charges
Officials have confirmed that Lucas was not the intended target of the shooting, which police classify as a violent act occurring in a public space. Dexter Mills, Jr., an 18-year-old resident of Wake Forest, has been formally charged with murder in connection with the case. Mills was assigned a public defender and ordered to be held without bond during his initial court appearance. He also faces a charge of possession of a stolen firearm from Franklin County; however, it remains unclear if this weapon was used during the shooting.
In addition to Mills, a 16-year-old juvenile has been arrested and charged with murder related to the same incident. Authorities have not released the juvenile’s name due to legal protections afforded to minors.
Police Statement and Ongoing Investigation
The Wake Forest Police Department has clarified that the shooting was not a drive-by incident. Instead, the circumstances surrounding how the incident unfolded are still under investigation. Police are actively seeking witnesses or individuals with relevant information to come forward and assist with the case, urging the public to contact their tip line.
About Ericka Lucas
Ericka Lucas was a dedicated educator who spent over three decades in Wake County schools. She began her career in education in 1991, serving in various roles including assistant principal and principal. Notably, she was the first principal of Rolesville High School, a position she held from the school’s opening in 2013 until 2016.
Lucas was renowned for her unwavering commitment to supporting students, especially those from underserved backgrounds. Colleagues recall her as a leader who made significant efforts to ensure that students of color felt valued and included in their educational environment. Her impact on the local community was widely recognized, and she was known for her empathetic approach and dedication to fostering positive school environments.
Community and Collegial Reactions
Several community leaders and former colleagues have expressed their respect for Lucas’s contributions. One former colleague highlighted her role in shaping the educational experiences of many students, emphasizing her focus on care and leadership. An organization dedicated to educational enrichment noted that her legacy continues through the community programs and initiatives she supported.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
Mills is scheduled to appear in court again on October 1, 2025. The investigation remains active, with police working to gather additional evidence and interview potential witnesses to elucidate the circumstances that led to the shooting.
Public Assistance and Contact Information
The Wake Forest Police Department actively encourages anyone with information pertinent to the case to contact their tip line. Authorities stress the importance of community involvement in helping to resolve the case and bring closure to the family and the community affected by this tragedy.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Former Rolesville Principal Ericka Lucas Shot and Killed
Additional Resources
- ABC11 News
- News Observer – Crime Article
- News Observer – Education Article
- ABC11 News – Ericka Lucas
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ericka Lucas
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, 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 state 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 North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
