Who Was Nerissa Lee? Lincoln Middle School Assistant Principal Killed in Berwyn Shooting

The Berwyn community is mourning the loss of Lincoln Middle School assistant principal, Nerissa Lee, who was fatally shot on Tuesday. Police said her husband, Steven Lee, carried out the attack before killing himself. The shooting also claimed the life of Nerissa’s 76-year-old mother, Joycelyn Everage.

Authorities confirmed the attack happened near Lincoln Middle School in Berwyn, Illinois. According to Berwyn Police, Steven Lee fired at the car carrying Nerissa and her mother. He later turned the gun on himself before officers could respond.

Nerissa Lee’s Role at Lincoln Middle School

Nerissa Lee was known as a dedicated educator and leader in the Berwyn North School District. She served as assistant principal at Lincoln Middle School. Superintendent Michelle Smith released a statement confirming her death and offering support to grieving students and staff.

The district said classes will resume with counselors available for those affected. Officials stressed that the tragedy was the result of domestic violence and not connected to the school itself. Students and parents have been reassured there is no ongoing safety threat.

Nerissa’s colleagues described her as a supportive administrator who cared deeply for the school community. Her sudden death has left staff and students shaken. According to Reuters and local authorities, police believe the shooting stemmed from a family dispute.

What Happened in Berwyn on Tuesday

The shooting unfolded just after 4 p.m. local time. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots near the school. Police arriving at the scene saw Steven Lee firing at the car. Officers said he also shot toward them before ending his own life.

Cook County officials later confirmed Steven Lee’s identity as the gunman. He was 54 years old. Nerissa’s mother, Joycelyn, was in the car with her and died from her injuries. The tragic event has brought renewed attention to domestic violence cases in Illinois.

The Berwyn Police Department emphasized that this was a targeted act involving family members. Authorities are working with the school district to provide counseling and crisis support.

Community Shock and Broader Impact

The deaths of Nerissa and her mother have sent shockwaves across Berwyn. Local leaders and parents have expressed grief and anger. Many have called for stronger awareness around domestic abuse prevention.

Lincoln Middle School reopened with a heavy police presence to ensure safety and calm fears. Teachers and counselors are focusing on helping children process the loss.

Domestic violence experts note that such tragedies often impact not just families but entire communities. Schools, in particular, face the difficult task of balancing normalcy while addressing grief.

The life and career of Nerissa Lee stand as a reminder of dedication to education. Her tragic death highlights the urgent need to address domestic violence in all communities.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who was Nerissa Lee?

She was the assistant principal of Lincoln Middle School in Berwyn, Illinois. She was widely respected as a school leader and mentor.

Q2: What happened to Nerissa Lee?

She was shot and killed on Tuesday by her husband, Steven Lee, during a domestic dispute. Her mother, Joycelyn, was also killed in the attack.

Q3: Who was the alleged shooter?

Authorities identified 54-year-old Steven Lee, Nerissa’s husband, as the shooter. He killed himself after the incident.

Q4: Was the school under threat?

No. Police confirmed the shooting was a domestic incident. There is no ongoing danger to Lincoln Middle School students or staff.

Q5: How is the school district responding?

The district has resumed classes with counselors available for students and staff. Leaders stressed the focus is on safety and wellbeing.