Ex-Rolesville High principal, wife of Wake Forest High football coach dies from shooting injuries

WAKE FOREST, N.C. (WTVD) — A former Wake County high school principal and the wife of a football coach who was seriously injured in a shooting late last month in Wake Forest has died, a town spokesman said Tuesday.

Ericka Lucas, 56, died Tuesday from the injuries she sustained on Aug. 29, just days after the community showed up to a Wake Forest High School football game in all blue to show support for the family.

She was the wife of Reggie Lucas, the head football coach of Wake Forest High School, and was also the former principal at Rolesville High School.

Investigators said previously that she was not the intended target and believed she was hit by gunfire meant for someone else in the 600 block of East Nelson Avenue. Police also said previously that this was not a drive-by shooting.

Stay on top of breaking news stories with the ABC11 News App

“The WFPD extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Ericka Lucas,” the department said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones during this difficult time.”

Ericka Lucas was a longtime educator and touched the lives of many students throughout her career. One of her former students, who spoke to ABC11, remembered her fondly.

“She brought a whole new spirit and enthusiasm to gym class as a young, naive middle schooler. So I have very cherished memories,” the former student said.

Ericka Lucas went on to serve as principal of Rolesville High, and she spoke with the mayor of Rolesville back in 2014 about how she was asking the community for food donations to ensure that no student at her school went hungry, regardless of their situation at home.

“I’m here for all kids,” she said at the time. “So, if I’m here for all kids and I’m going across the entire spectrum of kids, and try to make sure that everybody has what they need.”

In another interview, she beamed as she showed the mayor everything her high school had to offer students.

“Every day, every child, whatever it takes, and once a Ram, always a Ram,” she said.

On Tuesday afternoon, the Wake Forest Police Department arrested Dexter Lamont Mills, 18, in connection with the shooting.

Mills, of Wake Forest, and a 16-year-old juvenile who was arrested on Aug. 30, have each been charged with murder.

Wake Forest Police said the case remains under investigation. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the Police Tip Line at (919) 435-9610. You may remain anonymous.

Mills is being held with no bond. He is scheduled to appear before a judge on Wednesday.