Assistant Principal Nerissa Lee Among Three Killed in Berwyn School Shooting

Assistant Principal Nerissa Lee Among Three Killed in Berwyn School Shooting

Berwyn, IL — September 17, 2025 — Authorities have identified Nerissa Lee, Assistant Principal at Lincoln Middle School, as one of three people killed in a shooting outside the school on Tuesday afternoon.

The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed her identity late Tuesday, and the school district issued a statement honoring her dedication and service.

The incident occurred around 4:00 p.m. on September 16, 2025, near the intersection of 16th Street and Elmwood Avenue. Police say a man armed with a rifle fired multiple rounds into a vehicle parked outside the school. Officers in the vicinity attempted to take cover, and the suspect also fired toward them before turning the weapon on himself, resulting in his death.

Two individuals inside the targeted vehicle, including Ms. Lee, were fatally shot. A third victim was also pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not yet released information on the identities of the other victims or the motive for the attack, which remains under investigation.

In response, Lincoln Middle School was closed on Wednesday, with plans to reopen the following day. Counselors and crisis support teams have been made available to students, staff, and families to help cope with the tragedy.

District officials described Ms. Lee as a deeply committed educator who was beloved by students and colleagues. “Her passing is a devastating loss for our school community,” the statement read.

Community members are asked to keep the victims’ families, as well as Lincoln Middle School students and staff, in their thoughts and prayers.