The court has announced a new trial date for Tyler McCain, accused of murdering his wife, Nikki Cheng Saelee-McCain.

Facing a total of 12 charges, McCain is also accused of murdering his wife to prevent her from testifying in court regarding domestic abuse allegations against him. Originally, the jury trial was set to begin on November 18, but McCain’s attorney, Michael Borges, requested additional time due to the extensive documentation supplied by the prosecution.

In response, Shasta Superior Court Judge Adam B. Ryan rescheduled the trial for March 17, 2026. A trial readiness hearing has been slated for March 11 to confirm that both sides are adequately prepared to proceed.

Currently, Nikki remains missing and is presumed dead.

Detective Jeremiah Kessinger of the Redding Police Department revealed that Nikki’s sister, Chloe Saelee, maintained regular text communication with her until May 19. While the family last spoke with Nikki on May 18, Chloe received no response to her message the following day.

Chloe was aware of the domestic violence Nikki endured, including an incident where McCain allegedly aimed a gun at her and issued threats against her and her family.

In court, Detective Maul played an audio recording of Nikki McCain describing being assaulted by her husband, Tyler McCain. The recording was done in a hospital emergency room, where Nikki showed up to give the police a statement.

Nikki says, “He pushed me on the ground. And he started hitting me. He was just enraged; he was so angry.”

Nikki estimates the attack lasted three hours. Tyler McCain has pleaded not guilty to the murder charges.

Joining Nancy Grace today:

Additional Guests

• Kaye Ford  – Nikki’s sister
• Chloe Saelee – Nikki’s sister

“Crime Stories with Nancy Grace” on Fox Nation is also a national radio show on SiriusXM channel 111, airing for two hours daily starting at 12 p.m. EST. You can also subscribe and download the daily podcasts at iHeart Podcasts.

[Feature Photo: Family Handout]