A devastating shooting outside Lincoln Middle School in Berwyn, Illinois, has left three people dead, including beloved assistant principal Nerissa Lee, authorities said.

Police were called late Thursday afternoon after reports of gunfire near the school. When officers arrived, they found a man inside a vehicle still firing shots. Investigators believe the suspect fatally shot Lee and another victim before turning the gun on himself.

The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office has identified the shooter as 54-year-old Steven Lee, the husband of Nerissa Lee. Officials say the incident appears to be related to domestic violence. The identity of the third victim has not yet been released.

Lee’s death has shaken the Lincoln Middle School community, where she was known for her compassion and commitment to students. Former student Ena Laubis remembered her as someone who always looked out for children:

“She would offer students extra food if they were still hungry and keep food for them later in the day. She was truly a very kind individual.”

Neighbors echoed that sentiment, describing the tragedy as a profound loss for the tight-knit area. “This community has always been family-oriented, with everyone supporting each other, so this is a significant shock and a major loss for everyone here,” said Chris Dotson, who lives nearby.

The Berwyn Police Department and the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office continue to investigate the circumstances of the shooting. Counselors are being provided to students and staff at Lincoln Middle School as they grieve the loss of Lee and the others killed in this heartbreaking incident.