Buffalo Police Officer Charged with Second-Degree Murder in Wife’s Death

A Buffalo Police Department officer, Lance Woods, has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of his wife, Alexis Skoczylas. The incident has prompted investigations by both the New York Attorney General’s Office and the Buffalo Police Internal Affairs Division.

Details of the Incident

On Saturday, February 14, 2026, officers responded to a welfare check at a home on Buffalo Street in Sanborn, New York. Upon arrival, they discovered 35-year-old Alexis Skoczylas deceased inside the residence. She was found with a single gunshot wound to the head WKBW.

The Arrest and Charges

Lance Woods, 53, an active school resource officer with the Buffalo Police Department, was subsequently arrested and charged with one count of second-degree murder New York Attorney General. He was detained during a traffic stop by the Amherst Police Department between 3 a.m. And 4 a.m. On February 15, 2026 WKBW.

Woods was arraigned by Town of Somerset Justice of the Peace Pamela Rider and remanded into custody New York Attorney General.

Investigation and Response

The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) is overseeing the investigation, as per New York Executive Law Section 70-b, which mandates OSI assessment of incidents where a police officer may have caused a death New York Attorney General. The Buffalo Police Internal Affairs Division is also reviewing the timeline of events WGRZ.

Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan expressed sympathy for the victim’s family and confirmed the Internal Affairs Unit was notified WGRZ.

Domestic Dispute and Family

Court records indicate that Alexis Skoczylas had filed for a contested divorce in September 2025 WKBW and WGRZ. The case is being investigated as a domestic violence incident. Two children are in the care of relatives WKBW.

Lance Woods’ Employment History

Lance Woods has been with the Buffalo Police Department since January 18, 2008, and served as a school resource officer, responding to calls across schools in the city. His last shift ended at 4 p.m. On Friday, February 13, 2026 WGRZ.

Resources for Domestic Violence Victims

If you or someone you know is facing abuse, you can call the National Domestic Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233) for confidential, 24/7 support WKBW.