Robeson County Sheriff's Office Releases Findings in Mica Miller's Death Investigation
ICARO Media Group
In a recent update, the Robeson County Sheriff's Office has revealed new details surrounding the death of 30-year-old Mica Miller, of Myrtle Beach. Miller tragically died by suicide on April 27 at Lumber River State Park, according to Robeson County Medical Examiner Dr. Richard Johnson.
During a meeting with Miller's family, Robeson County Sheriff Burnis Wilkins disclosed the timeline of events that occurred on the day of Miller's death. The series of events began with a 911 call placed from a 843-area code number, where Miller asked if her phone could be located and subsequently "threatened suicide". Unfortunately, Miller hung up before further information could be gathered by the dispatcher.
The telecommunicator made multiple attempts to call Miller back but was unable to establish contact. At 3:03 p.m., Robeson County deputies were dispatched to Lumber River State Park for a well-being check and to locate Miller. By 3:20 p.m., contact had been made with the Lumber River State Park superintendent, and at 3:31 p.m., deputies requested a phone ping to determine Miller's location.
Deputies arrived at the park at 3:33 p.m., accompanied by State Park rangers. Additionally, the Robeson County Sheriff's Office Aviation Division dispatched an Air3 sUAV drone to aid in the search. At 3:42 p.m., a telecommunicator contacted Verizon to request an updated location ping. By 3:50 p.m., detectives arrived at Lumber River State Park with the Air3 sUAV.
During the aerial search, detectives were approached by an individual who claimed to have found a bag belonging to Miller while fishing. Inside the bag, they discovered Miller's ID. The individual reported hearing crying sounds and a gunshot before finding the bag about two feet from the water's edge. Another person, who had been fishing by kayak, contacted Robeson County 911 to report finding a body in the water.
Deputies promptly secured the area and brought in the Chief of Detectives for the Robeson County Sheriff's Office at 5:30 p.m. Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) technicians documented the area of investigation, including Miller's vehicle, and gathered evidence from both her car and the incident location.
At 7:11 p.m., a firearm was located in the water. Detectives also shared ring camera footage, which revealed Miller's presence at a residence in Myrtle Beach at 11 a.m. on April 27, as well as her visit to Dick's Pawn Shop at 12:13 p.m. on the same day.
Investigators also unveiled details about Miller's husband, John-Paul Miller. It was discovered that on April 26, the day prior to Mica's death, John-Paul had traveled to Charleston for a sporting event, with eyewitnesses and license plate readers confirming his presence. He returned to Myrtle Beach on April 27, and it was noted that he had been accompanied by other individuals during his travels.
In response to the investigation findings, Mica's family met with deputies, while John-Paul Miller requested a meeting with the Robeson County Sheriff's Office in South Carolina. However, Sheriff Burnis Wilkins stated that they do not currently plan to travel to South Carolina.
Additional reports released on Monday outlined the existence of harassment incidents leading up to Miller's death, indicating that she had expressed fear for her life. A rally was held by friends and family on Sunday outside the Solid Rock Church, calling for justice for Mica. Simultaneously, both Mica's family and her estranged husband, who is a pastor, organized separate memorial services.
The Solid Rock Church released a statement on Monday, announcing that Pastor John-Paul Miller has been temporarily relieved from his ministerial duties for a period of healing, counsel, and guidance. The church's website was also suspended over the weekend.
If you or someone you know is struggling, it is important to reach out for help. The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be contacted by dialing 9-8-8, providing support in both English and Spanish 24/7.
The Robeson County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Mica Miller's tragic death, and further updates may be released as the investigation progresses.