Family of Missing California Mother Seeks Truth Amid Homicide Investigation

The family of a Northern California mother is in search of answers as her recent disappearance has been ruled a homicide. Nikki Cheng Saelee-McCain, a 39-year-old mother of four, vanished on May 17, 2024, from Shasta County. The Shasta County Sheriff’s Office has since classified her case as a homicide, deepening the family’s concern and urgency.

Emotional Plea from Family

Kaye Ford and Chloe Saelee, Saelee-McCain’s sisters, shared their emotional insights during an interview. They conveyed a strong sense of foreboding when Nikki first went missing. Kaye Ford stated that her heart immediately sensed something was wrong. Chloe echoed her sentiment, highlighting their family’s close-knit nature and daily communication.

“We knew Nikki wouldn’t just disappear or stop communicating with us,” Ford remarked. “This isn’t like her. It truly felt as if something terrible had happened.” In their minds, the ticking clock was crucial for obtaining evidence and clues regarding what transpired to their sister.

Last Known Contact

On May 18, 2024, around 12:35 a.m., Saelee-McCain sent her family a text, marking her last known communication. Days later, on May 25, her vehicle, a 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche, was discovered abandoned in western Tehama County. This discovery heightened fears for her safety.

Investigative Developments

The situation escalated on March 25, 2025, when the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office announced they identified potential persons of interest in Saelee-McCain’s homicide investigation.

“I remain hopeful that individuals with information will step forward,” Ford noted. “Whether or not they are directly involved in the act, they could still know something about the situation, such as a cover-up or cleanup.” The sisters emphasized their desire for transparency and urged those involved to come forward to alleviate their guilt.

Building Public Awareness

The sisters continue to apply pressure for updates from law enforcement, who they acknowledge have been diligently working behind the scenes. Ford mentioned that while much of the police work remains invisible, they trust the authorities are doing everything possible.

Nearly ten months after her wife’s disappearance, Tyler McCain, Saelee-McCain’s husband, spoke publicly during a March 10, 2025, press conference arranged by the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office. He expressed regret regarding his past behavior, especially concerning prior domestic abuse allegations. Tyler acknowledged his limited public involvement in the search for his missing wife and offered apologies to their children and both families.

“I’m here to support and want to do anything I can,” he stated, reflecting a mixture of remorse and sorrow.

Past Allegations and Current Status

Tyler McCain faced charges in December 2023, which included several felony counts such as corporal injury to a spouse, false imprisonment, criminal threats, and assault. Those charges were dropped in July due to Saelee-McCain’s disappearance, subsequently denying her the chance to testify against him.

As of now, authorities have not officially linked Tyler McCain to his wife’s disappearance. However, the investigation remains active and ongoing, drawing attention from local media and the broader public.

A Call for Witnesses

Authorities are currently seeking information concerning a red truck. Witnesses believe its driver may have picked up a man in western Tehama County along Highway 36 near the R Wild Horse Ranch or the Beegum Gorge Bridge between May 18 and May 25, 2024. This detail could prove crucial as the investigation develops further.

To encourage the community to come forward, a reward totaling up to $30,000 has been announced for information leading to Saelee-McCain’s whereabouts. The family remains optimistic that someone in the community might hold the key to unraveling this tragic mystery.

Community Efforts and Ongoing Updates

Fox News Digital has reached out to Saelee-McCain’s attorney, the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office, and Rep. Doug LaMalfa to gather more insights and updates on the case. The community’s response has shown significant concern for Saelee-McCain’s family, as they continue to seek closure and truth.

Inevitably, the silence surrounding the case weighs heavily on the hearts of those who knew and loved Saelee-McCain. The sisters are resolute in their determination, vowing to keep her story alive until they uncover the truth.

The Saelee-McCain family remains hopeful and urges the public to report any information that could assist the ongoing investigation. In times of tragedy, community awareness and action can make all the difference in seeking justice.