Homicide investigation initiated for Nikki McCain in Shasta County

The case of Nikki Cheng Saelee McCain has shifted from a missing person investigation to a homicide case, according to the Shasta County Sheriff's Office. The office revealed that evidence and interviews led detectives to believe that the 39-year-old mother of four was murdered. Nikki McCain was last in contact with her family on May 18, 2024. She sent a text message to her sister early that morning. Four days later, her family reported her missing to the police. On May 25, law enforcement found her car, a 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche, in western Tehama County. On July 5, supporters gathered at a rally for Nikki McCain, drawing around 200 people. This event occurred shortly after her husband, Tyler McCain, had charges against him dismissed in a separate case. A billboard calling for information about Nikki was also put up along a busy highway. In July, a group from Miami increased the reward for information leading to her safe return to $30,000, joining local organizations that had also raised funds. By late July, Tyler McCain faced legal troubles for violating a protective order related to domestic violence. He was arrested for having ammunition in his vehicle. As the months passed, family and friends continued to advocate for Nikki. In October 2024, another rally took place but drew fewer attendees. On March 10, 2025, Nikki's family held a press conference to remind the public of her ongoing case. Just four days later, authorities announced they now believe Nikki was the victim of a homicide. The sheriff's office has not disclosed the reasons for this change in status. The investigation has received assistance from the FBI and Homeland Security, and they conducted a search of Nikki's house during this time.