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Assistant Principal, Two Others Killed in Domestic Violence-Related Shooting Outside Middle School

Police say the suspect opened fire near the school during dismissal time, leaving three dead before turning the gun on himself.

Three people, including the assistant principal of Lincoln Middle School in suburban Berwyn, Il were killed in what police are calling a “domestic-related” shooting outside the school on Tuesday afternoon.

In an update on Wednesday, the Berwyn Police Department identified one of the victims as Assistant Principal Nerissa Lee and described the event as a “tragic loss.” “The impact of this loss is deeply felt not only within the school community but throughout Berwyn,” police said. “Assistant Principal Lee was a dedicated educator and leader who touched the lives of countless students and staff members.”

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Berwyn North School District 98 also confirmed Lee’s death in a message to families. “It is with great sadness that I announce to you that Nerissa Lee, Assistant Principal at Lincoln Middle School, lost her life in yesterday’s tragic shooting that occurred outside of Lincoln,” wrote Superintendent Dr. Michelle Smith. She said classes, which were canceled on Wednesday, would resume on Thursday with grief counselors on site.

According to police, officers heard gunfire shortly after 4 p.m. near the school on 16th Street and responded to the scene. A man was then spotted firing a rifle into another vehicle. As officers approached, the suspect shot at them. Police took cover and did not return fire. During the exchange, three people were shot and killed, authorities said.

NBC Chicago’s Sky 5 helicopter captured footage showing two vehicles stopped in the street and blood on the sidewalk as officers worked behind crime scene tape. The shooting prompted a school lockdown, with witnesses reporting dozens of gunshots.

A message from Smith on Tuesday said the gunman fired at another car “before turning the gun on himself,” though NBC Chicago has not independently confirmed that detail. Police have not released further information about the suspect, the victims, or their relationships.

"As we continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident, we remain committed to ensuring the safety of our community and supporting all affected by this tragedy," the update said, according to NBC Chicago.

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