FBI Searches South Carolina Pastor’s Home Amid Suspicion Surrounding Wife’s Death

On Friday, the FBI searched the home of South Carolina pastor John-Paul Miller, who recently told his congregation that his wife had died by suicide.

The search is the latest development in a case that has drawn intense public interest and scrutiny.

Miller’s attorney, Russell Long, confirmed to the Post and Dispatch that agents served a search warrant at Miller’s residence. Long described the operation as a “fishing” expedition when asked what authorities were looking for.

Miller — who’d casually announced that his wife fatally shot herself during a church sermon had his attorney, Russell Long, confirmed the search warrant to the Post and Dispatch. Burroughs Funeral Home

At the time of the search, Miller was not home. Long stated, “There was no affidavit attached to the search warrant. Therefore, I have no idea what it’s about.”

Mica Miller, 30, was found dead on April 27 from a gunshot wound to the head at Lumber River State Park in North Carolina, where witnesses reportedly heard her crying for several minutes before her death.

Her death has raised questions about her husband, who serves as pastor at Solid Rock Church in Myrtle Beach.

Days before her death, Mica had filed for divorce from John-Paul. While her death was ruled a suicide by the Robeson County medical examiner, Mica’s family has since urged authorities to investigate further, alleging that John-Paul, 45, had a history of abusive behaviour toward her.

Records show that Mica had contacted police several times in the months leading up to her death, alleging her husband had slashed her tyres, installed a tracking device on her car, and even hospitalised her against her will.

She also accused him of “grooming” her from the age of 10 when he was already an adult. The couple later married in 2017.

John-Paul first announced his wife’s death during a sermon at his church, saying, “I got a call late last night; my wife has passed away. It was self-induced, and it was up in North Carolina.”

He has since denied the allegations of abuse and grooming, emphasising that he was hundreds of miles away at the time of her death. No charges have been filed against him.

Despite this, many questions linger. Mica supporters recently gathered in protest, wearing purple #JusticeForMica shirts. One protester held a sign with Mica’s photo and the words, “Your voice is powerful.”

Authorities have not released any documents related to the FBI search, and the local FBI office has declined to comment. Attorneys representing John-Paul also have not responded to media inquiries.

For those struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available. Contact the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or visit SuicidePreventionLifeline.org for support.