Assistant Principal Nerissa Lee Among Three Killed in Berwyn School Shooting

BERWYN, Ill., Sept. 17, 2025 - Nerissa Lee, assistant principal at Lincoln Middle School, was fatally shot Tuesday afternoon in a domestic‐related attack outside the school’s 16th Street campus, authorities reported.

The tragic incident unfolded around 4 p.m. when a gunman opened fire into a vehicle parked in front of the middle school. Lee, 46, was inside that vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene, alongside another victim; the shooter then died by a self‐inflicted gunshot wound, according to Berwyn police.

Nut Graf

The killing of a beloved school administrator has sent shockwaves through the Berwyn North School District, prompting district officials to close Lincoln Middle School Wednesday for grief counseling. Classes are scheduled to resume Thursday, with additional support services available to students and staff.

Shooting Details

  • Police Response: Officers nearby heard about 20 shots and saw a man firing a rifle into the vehicle. When they approached, he fired at them; they took cover and did not return fire before the suspect turned the weapon on himself.
  • Victim Identification: District Superintendent Dr. Michelle Smith confirmed Lee’s death in a Facebook post, emphasizing that a domestic dispute was at the root of the violence and assuring there is no ongoing threat to the school community.
  • School Impact: Lincoln Middle School, housing roughly 100 students at the time for after-school activities, was immediately placed on lockdown. No students or staff were harmed.

Community Reaction

Neighbors and former students described Lee as a dedicated educator known for her warmth and attentiveness. A makeshift memorial of flowers and notes has grown outside the school entrance as parents and pupils stop by to pay respects.

Next Steps

  • Counseling Services: Social workers and counselors will be on campus Thursday to assist anyone affected by the tragedy.
  • Investigation: Berwyn police continue to investigate the circumstances of the domestic violence incident and will release further details pending completion of their inquiry.