In the summer of 2014, a quiet street in Maple Shade, New Jersey, became the scene of a heart-wrenching tragedy that claimed the life of 39-year-old Nicole Ann Neely Hike. A dedicated registered nurse, Nicole was known for her compassionate care at Underwood Memorial Hospital/Inspira Health Care in Woodbury, NJ. Her life, however, was abruptly cut short on the evening of July 11, 2014.
On that Friday night, a concerned relative discovered a grim scene at the Arlington Avenue home Nicole shared with her husband, 42-year-old Craig Hike. Both Nicole and her husband were found deceased inside the residence. A subsequent investigation by the Burlington County Prosecutor's Office brought to light the devastating circumstances of their deaths.
Authorities determined that the incident was a murder-suicide. According to the investigation, Craig Hike fatally shot his wife, Nicole, before turning the gun on himself.
Autopsies later confirmed that both individuals died from gunshot wounds. With this finding, the investigation was closed, as law enforcement officials concluded there were no other suspects involved in the tragic event.
The news of Nicole's violent death sent shockwaves through the community and left her family, friends, and colleagues to grapple with an immeasurable loss. Remembered as a beloved daughter, sister, and friend, Nicole's passing left a void in the lives of those who knew her. Her funeral services were held at the Givnish Funeral Home in Maple Shade, followed by a mass at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church. She was laid to rest at Lakeview Memorial Park in Cinnaminson.
