Wake Forest, September 10, 2025
News Summary
Ericka Ruffin Lucas, a respected former principal of Rolesville High School, has died after a shooting incident in Wake Forest. The 56-year-old was not the intended target during the August incident. Two individuals have been arrested, including an 18-year-old facing murder charges. Lucas was known for her commitment to fostering a positive educational environment. The community is coming together to honor her legacy as they support her family and seek justice for this tragic loss.
Wake Forest: Former Rolesville High School Principal Ericka Lucas Dies After Being Shot
Ericka Ruffin Lucas, a former principal of Rolesville High School, died on Tuesday following a shooting incident on August 29 in Wake Forest. She was 56 years old. The shooting occurred on East Nelson Avenue and was not a drive-by incident; Lucas was not the intended target.
During the investigation, a 16-year-old was arrested and initially charged in connection with the shooting. On Tuesday, Dexter Lamont Mills, an 18-year-old, was also arrested and charged with murder. Both Mills and the 16-year-old are now facing murder charges related to this incident. The names of the minors involved have not been released.
Lucas served as the principal of Rolesville High School from its inception in 2013 until 2016, shortly after the school’s first graduating class. She was noted for her dedication to fostering a positive school culture, and her past experience included a role at the East Wake School of Arts, Education and Global Studies. In 2012, she was a finalist for Wake County’s Principal of the Year.
Community members have expressed their support for Lucas since the shooting incident. At a Wake Forest High School football game shortly after the event, attendees paid tribute to her impact on local youth. Former student Sierra Smith highlighted Lucas’ commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all students during her tenure as principal.
Before becoming a principal, Lucas earned her bachelor’s degree from Elizabeth City State University and her master’s degree in school administration from North Carolina State University. After leaving her role at Rolesville High School, she chose to pivot her career to spend more time with her family.
The investigation into the shooting continues, and police are urging anyone with information to contact the police tip line at 919-435-9610.
Key Information
- Victim: Ericka Ruffin Lucas, 56, former principal of Rolesville High School
- Date of Incident: August 29
- Location: East Nelson Avenue, Wake Forest
- Arrests: 16-year-old and 18-year-old Dexter Lamont Mills, both charged with murder
- Community Response: Memorial support during Wake Forest High School football game
- Previous Roles: Principal at Rolesville High School, East Wake School of Arts, Education and Global Studies
- Education: Bachelor’s degree from Elizabeth City State University; Master’s from North Carolina State University
Background
Ericka Lucas left her position at Rolesville High shortly after the school’s first graduating class in 2016. She decided to pursue family time over her administrative career, signaling a significant shift in her priorities. Her previous contributions to education and her role in enhancing the school environment have left a lasting imprint on those who knew her.
As the community grieves, the focus remains on supporting her family and ensuring justice in the case surrounding her tragic death. Many have come forward to share memories, celebrating her life and the positive impact she had on countless students.
FAQs
- What led to the shooting of Ericka Lucas?
- The shooting was not a drive-by incident, and Ericka Lucas was not the intended target. Gunfire was directed at someone else.
- Who has been charged in connection with the shooting?
- Dexter Lamont Mills, 18, and a 16-year-old are both facing murder charges related to the shooting of Ericka Lucas.
- What was Ericka Lucas known for during her career?
- Ericka Lucas was known for her dedication to fostering a positive school culture during her time as principal at Rolesville High School and previously at East Wake School of Arts, Education and Global Studies.
- How can the public assist in the investigation?
- Anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact the police tip line at 919-435-9610.
- What were Ericka Lucas’s academic qualifications?
- Lucas earned her bachelor’s degree from Elizabeth City State University and her master’s degree in school administration from North Carolina State University.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Ericka Ruffin Lucas |
| Age | 56 |
| Shooting Date | August 29 |
| Incident Location | East Nelson Avenue, Wake Forest |
| Arrested Individuals | Dexter Lamont Mills (18), 16-year-old juvenile |
| Charges | Murder |
| Community Response | Tributes at Wake Forest High School football game |
| Former Role | Principal at Rolesville High School |
| Education | Bachelor’s from Elizabeth City State University; Master’s from NC State |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- ABC11 News
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
- WRAL News
- Google Search: Ericka Lucas shooting
- CBS17 News
- Google Scholar: Gun Violence Education
- News Observer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ericka Lucas
- Wake Weekly
- Google News: Ericka Lucas
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