Buffalo Police Department Member Charged in Sanborn Homicide

Lewiston Police arrested a 53-year-old Buffalo officer in connection with the death of a 35-year-old woman.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Lewiston Police have arrested and charged Lance Woods, a member of the Buffalo Police Department, with one count of second-degree murder in connection with the death of 35-year-old Alexis Skoczylas in the town of Sanborn. Woods was taken into custody less than 12 hours after Skoczylas was found dead inside her home during a welfare check.

Why it matters

This case raises serious concerns about potential misconduct within the Buffalo Police Department and the public's trust in law enforcement. It also highlights the need for thorough investigations and accountability measures when an officer is implicated in a violent crime.

The details

According to Lewiston Police Chief Michael Salada, officers responded to Skoczylas' home on Buffalo Street for a welfare check on Saturday evening, where they found her dead inside. After a rapid investigation, police arrested Woods, a 53-year-old Buffalo police officer, and charged him with second-degree murder.

  • Police were called to the home on Saturday evening for a welfare check.
  • Skoczylas was found dead inside the home.
  • Less than 12 hours later, Woods was arrested and charged with second-degree murder.

The players

Lance Woods

A 53-year-old member of the Buffalo Police Department who has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of Alexis Skoczylas.

Alexis Skoczylas

A 35-year-old woman who was found dead inside her home in Sanborn, New York.

Michael Salada

The Lewiston Police Chief who announced the arrest and charges against Woods.

Sean Ryan

The Mayor of Buffalo who expressed condolences to the victim's family and stated that the Buffalo Police Department's Internal Affairs unit had been notified.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“My heart goes out to the family, to the children who were on site during the incident.”

— Sean Ryan, Mayor of Buffalo (wgrz.com)

What’s next

The New York State Attorney General's Office will be notified if charges are filed against Woods, and the Buffalo Police Department's Internal Affairs unit is investigating the incident.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for rigorous oversight and accountability measures within police departments to ensure public trust, especially when an officer is implicated in a serious crime. It also underscores the importance of thorough investigations to uncover the truth and deliver justice for victims and their families.