Lodi Tattoo Shop Owner Accused of Killing Wife

Emotional courtroom scene as son's interview is played during preliminary hearing

Mar. 11, 2026 at 2:03am

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A 51-year-old Lodi tattoo shop owner, Shane Winans, is accused of killing his 43-year-old wife Nicole Winans during a domestic dispute in their Woodbridge home in December 2024. Winans broke down in tears in court as investigators played a recorded interview of his young son describing the moments leading up to his mother's death.

Why it matters

Domestic violence cases often involve complex emotional and legal issues, especially when children are involved. This case highlights the trauma experienced by families and the challenges prosecutors face in securing convictions in these types of cases.

The details

Authorities say neighbors had already subdued Winans by the time deputies arrived at the home, where they found Nicole Winans dead on the kitchen floor with a gunshot wound to the forehead. In the recorded interview, Winans' son told detectives he saw his father dragging his mother down the stairs by her hair and heard three gunshots as they fled the home fearing for their lives. Winans is facing charges including murder, child endangerment, and multiple gun enhancements.

  • The incident occurred on December 6, 2024 in Winans' Woodbridge home.
  • A preliminary hearing was held on March 11, 2026.
  • Winans is scheduled to return to court on March 24, 2026 for his arraignment.

The players

Shane Winans

A 51-year-old Lodi tattoo shop owner accused of killing his wife Nicole Winans during a domestic dispute.

Nicole Winans

Shane Winans' 43-year-old wife who was found shot and killed inside their Woodbridge home.

Allen Sawyer

Shane Winans' defense attorney, who plans to argue the shooting was not intentional.

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What they’re saying

“My objective is to show that this was not intentional — that this was a tragic accident.”

— Allen Sawyer, Defense Attorney

What’s next

Shane Winans is scheduled to return to court on March 24, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. in Dept. 8C for his arraignment. His defense attorney said a trial could still be about a year away.

The takeaway

This case highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence, especially when children are involved. It underscores the complex legal and emotional issues prosecutors face in securing convictions in these types of cases, and the importance of addressing the root causes of domestic abuse in order to prevent such tragedies.