The Wake Forest community in North Carolina is mourning the loss of a respected educator after she was fatally shot in her own neighborhood. Two teenagers are now facing murder charges in connection with her death.
A Beloved Educator
Ericka Ruffin Lucas, 56, was widely admired as the former principal of Rolesville High School. She was also the wife of the head football coach at Wake Forest High School, where her presence in the community was deeply felt.
Friends, colleagues, and former students describe her as someone who cared deeply about others and made people feel valued.
One former student told WRAL that as a young Black girl, she often struggled to feel comfortable in school, but Lucas always made her feel seen and safe.
The Shooting Incident
On August 29, Wake Forest police responded to reports of gunfire around 6 p.m. in the East Nelson Avenue area. When officers arrived, they found Lucas suffering from severe gunshot wounds.
Investigators later confirmed that Lucas was not the intended target of the shooting. She was tragically struck by bullets meant for someone else nearby.
The Suspects Arrested
The day after the shooting, police arrested a 16-year-old in connection with the case. At the time, the teen was charged with assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill and inflicting serious injury. After Lucas passed away on September 3, those charges were upgraded to murder.
Police later announced the arrest of 18-year-old Dexter Lamont Mills Jr. He has been charged with murder and possession of a stolen firearm. Mills is currently being held without bond at the Wake County Jail and is expected to make his first court appearance on Wednesday.
Community in Grief
The loss of Lucas has left the Wake Forest community heartbroken. She was remembered not only for her role as a school leader but also for her kindness and the way she inspired her students. For many, her death feels especially painful because she was taken in such a senseless act of violence.
The death of Ericka Ruffin Lucas is a devastating reminder of how gun violence can shatter lives and communities. While two suspects are now facing murder charges, the pain of losing a beloved educator and mentor remains.
Lucas’ impact on her students and her community will not be forgotten, and those who knew her will continue to honor her memory.
