Tragic Shooting of UNC Student During Random Robbery

Charlotte, North Carolina – The father of a University of North Carolina student who was shot during what authorities described as a “random” robbery expressed his deep anger upon discovering the suspect’s extensive criminal background.

Logan Federico, a 22-year-old aspiring educator from Waxhaw, was visiting a friend at the University of South Carolina in Columbia over the weekend, staying at his friend’s home from May 2nd to 3rd.

In the early hours of May 3, a 30-year-old man, identified as Alexander Dicky—a known repeat offender—broke into the house, stole credit and debit cards, and tragically shot Logan, according to Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook’s comments at a press conference on May 5.

“It was supposed to be a different plan,” Logan’s father, Stephen Federico, shared. Leading up to that moment, she had been scheduled to come home the night before but decided to remain with her friend instead. “It’s all about courage. She wasn’t meant to be there that night.”

On the afternoon of Saturday, May 3, Logan’s mother, Melissa Federico, was cooking when two police officers knocked on the door to deliver the devastating news about her daughter’s death. Stephen was playing golf at the time but received the call from Melissa.

“I heard a scream from my wife on the phone; she didn’t want to say it outright, and I had to coax it out of her,” Stephen recounted. “When she finally told me Logan was gone, I was just in disbelief.”

Describing his reaction, he said it felt like a punch to the gut—an overwhelming sense of panic washed over him.

Stephen felt a sense of rage when he later learned from the news that Dicky had a long history of criminal activity, totaling nearly 40 arrests across various counties in North Carolina.

“It was just shocking,” he expressed. “I got the initial name but didn’t have much detail. The officers were still piecing everything together, but they mentioned he was a career criminal, and that just hit me hard.”

At the time of her death, Logan was studying at Central Piedmont Community College and juggling two jobs, all while dreaming of one day becoming a teacher. She loved working with children, having babysat in the summers, and was passionate about education.

Stephen characterized his daughter as having an “electric” personality—someone who genuinely cared for those around her. “She had such a huge heart,” he said. “She had this incredible ability to draw people in, especially those who felt excluded.”

According to the police, early on May 3, Dicky drove a stolen vehicle to the neighborhood where he randomly parked. He allegedly broke into several homes, stealing car keys and firearms before entering the dwelling where Logan was staying.

While inside, he stole several credit cards and, upon discovering Logan asleep, shot her fatally with a stolen weapon.

Authorities responded around 11 AM and declared Logan dead at the scene. Columbia police clarified that Logan was an unfortunate casualty of this random act, not a targeted victim.

The following day, Dicky was reportedly caught using one of the stolen credit cards, leading to a series of events that included fleeing from police and attempting to set a residence on fire. He was eventually apprehended by the Lexington County Sheriff’s Office.

Logan’s father lamented that her murder has taken away a remarkable person who was eager to uplift others and inspire future generations of students.

Recently, Dicky faced a bond hearing, attended by Stephen and other affected families. He emphasized the importance of being present for Logan, stating he will continue advocating for justice.

Additionally, he extended gratitude to the Columbia police for their swift actions in arresting Dicky, referring to two officers as “friends” who were dedicated to their calling.

“They’ve become my friends,” he said earnestly. “They’re special people, and they truly make a difference.”

Dicky faces multiple charges, including two counts of murder, armed robbery, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. He had only recently been sentenced to probation for past robbery charges. His next court date is set for July 25, where he could face life imprisonment.

The attorney representing Dicky did not respond to inquiries for comments at this time.