Lumber River State Park, North Carolina – A Troubling Case Unfolds
In a shocking turn of events, a South Carolina pastor has been arrested amidst a backdrop of tragedy and controversy surrounding his late wife’s death. The case involves **John-Paul Miller**, who was taken into custody on charges of third-degree assault and battery following an incident outside his church, **Solid Rock at Common Market**, on Wednesday.
Who?
The arrest centers on **John-Paul Miller**, a 45-year-old pastor with a strained relationship history, particularly following the **suicide of his wife, Mica Miller**, a 30-year-old woman whose death has raised many questions and prompted calls for justice.
What?
John-Paul Miller was charged with assault and battery after a reported confrontation with protesters who have been vocal about Mica’s tragic death. He was released on a $776 bond shortly after his arrest. The confrontation is believed to have arisen from ongoing tensions related to the circumstances surrounding his wife’s death.
Where?
The incident leading to Miller’s arrest occurred outside his church located in **Horry County**, South Carolina. Meanwhile, Mica Miller was found dead in **Lumber River State Park** in North Carolina, an event that continues to haunt both her family and the community.
When?
Mica Miller died by suicide on **April 27, 2024**. In the days leading up to her death, she filed for divorce, suggesting a tumultuous relationship. Her final moments reportedly included a call to 911, revealing distressing information that has fueled speculation and concern over her well-being before her death.
Why?
The backdrop of this case is fraught with tragedy, as Mica Miller had recently expressed feeling tracked and possibly threatened. Court documents released prior to her death mentioned difficulties in her marriage, prompting public outcry and demands for further investigation into the circumstances surrounding her passing. John-Paul Miller has not been charged with any crime directly related to Mica’s death; however, the investigations surrounding this case have attracted significant media attention. The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that they believe he had an alibi on the day of her death. Nevertheless, the FBI reportedly searched his home, collecting evidence, which has raised further questions.
Impact on the Community
The death of Mica Miller and the subsequent legal troubles facing her husband have stirred emotions within the community. Friends and family members have utilized social media platforms, rallying around the hashtag **#JusticeForMica** as they seek accountability and understanding of the events that led to her untimely death. This case has sparked discussions about mental health, the adequacy of support systems for individuals in troubled relationships, and the need for preventive measures in cases involving potential domestic issues.
A Call for Awareness
As this case continues to unfold, many are reminded of the importance of mental health resources. If you or someone you know is struggling, reaching out for help is crucial. Contacting the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255) can provide essential support and guidance in times of crisis.
The community remains vigilant, awaiting further developments in both the legal proceedings against John-Paul Miller and the broader conversation regarding mental health and domestic issues brought to light by the tragic death of Mica Miller.
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
