Buffalo Cop Charged With Killing Wife While Children Were in the Home

Authorities say the officer used his personal firearm to murder his wife in their Sanborn home.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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A 53-year-old Buffalo police officer has been charged with second-degree murder in the shooting death of his 35-year-old wife, Alexis Skoczylas, at their Sanborn, New York home. The couple's two children were present at the time of the incident.

Why it matters

This case highlights the issue of domestic violence involving law enforcement officers and the potential impact on their families. It also raises questions about officer accountability and the use of personal firearms, as opposed to department-issued weapons, in such incidents.

The details

According to authorities, Lewiston Police were asked to conduct a welfare check at the home on Saturday evening, where they found Alexis Skoczylas dead from a single gunshot wound to the head. Her husband, Lance Woods, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder. Woods, who has been with the Buffalo Police Department since 2008, used his personal firearm to commit the murder, rather than his department-issued weapon.

  • On Saturday evening, February 15, 2026, Lewiston Police responded to a welfare check at the Sanborn home.
  • On Sunday morning, February 16, 2026, Woods was arrested by Amherst Police during a traffic stop.

The players

Lance Woods

A 53-year-old police officer with the Buffalo Police Department since 2008, who has been charged with second-degree murder in the shooting death of his wife.

Alexis Skoczylas

The 35-year-old wife of Lance Woods, who was found dead in their Sanborn home from a single gunshot wound to the head.

Letitia James

The New York State Attorney General, whose office is investigating the shooting pursuant to state law.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold law enforcement officers to the highest standards of conduct, both on and off duty.”

— Letitia James, New York State Attorney General (crimeonline.com)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to grant bail for Lance Woods as the investigation continues.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for greater support and resources for law enforcement families, as well as stronger accountability measures to prevent domestic violence incidents involving police officers.