On February 18, 2021, the community of Columbia, Missouri, mourned the loss of thirty-three-year-old Maya Leah Nicole 'Nicki' Wootton, a compassionate woman remembered for her dedication to helping both people and animals. A graduate of Hickman High School who had earned a career certification in peer support counseling, Wootton was known for her vibrant spirit and her willingness to assist those in need, often extending kindness to strangers.
Her life was tragically cut short following an act of generosity during a period of dangerously cold weather when she offered shelter to two individuals who were reportedly homeless and living out of a car.
The events leading to her death began on February 15, 2021, when police were called to a residence to check on the well-being of the occupants. Officers discovered Wootton suffering from a gunshot wound. She was immediately transported to a local hospital for treatment but succumbed to her injuries three days later. Investigation revealed that Wootton had welcomed Elizabeth Emily Dye and Lucas Gordon Harper into her home to provide them with a warm place to stay during the freezing temperatures. Instead of returning her kindness, the guests allegedly turned on her; reports indicated that after Dye shot Wootton, she proceeded to rummage through the victim's belongings, stealing items that included a rare coin collection.
Law enforcement officers arrested both suspects in connection with the homicide. Elizabeth Emily Dye, a 26-year-old woman from Columbia, was identified as the shooter. She was initially charged with first-degree murder and robbery, while 34-year-old Lucas Gordon Harper was charged with tampering with evidence for his role in attempting to conceal the crime. Harper later told investigators he had witnessed the shooting and the subsequent theft.
The legal proceedings concluded later that year with plea agreements for the accused. In September 2021, Elizabeth Dye pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of second-degree murder, avoiding a potential life sentence without parole. She was subsequently sentenced to twenty years in prison for the killing. Lucas Harper pleaded guilty to tampering with physical evidence in August 2021 and awaited separate sentencing. The tragic case highlighted the profound loss of a woman who had spent her life trying to uplift others, only to fall victim to violence from those she attempted to aid.
