Prosecutors in Indianapolis have formally charged a 47-year-old man in connection with the death of his wife following a shooting at their southeast side home late last month. The charges were filed Monday, January 5, 2026, as investigators continue reviewing evidence surrounding the domestic incident that unfolded in front of the couple’s children.
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| Indianapolis Man Charged With Murder in Wife’s Death at Southeast Side Home |
The case has drawn attention due to its timing and the circumstances leading up to the shooting. Authorities say the victim had recently sought legal protection before her death, and court proceedings are now underway.
Fatal Shooting Reported at Southeast Indianapolis Home
According to investigators, the shooting occurred around 2:20 p.m. on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at a residence in the 8100 block of Meadow Bend Lane. Police say the victim, 44-year-old Jeri Mae Mains, was shot in the driveway of her home.
Emergency responders were dispatched after one of the couple’s children called 911, reporting that their father had shot their mother and left the scene. Officers arrived to find the victim suffering from gunshot injuries. She was transported for medical treatment but later died from her injuries.
Children Witnessed the Incident
Authorities confirmed that the shooting took place in front of the couple’s four children, whose ages range from 10 to 19 years old. Police have stated that the children were not physically harmed during the incident.
Following the shooting, the children were placed in the care of relatives. Officials have not released additional details about their identities in order to protect their privacy.
Arrest Made After Traffic Stop
Police say the suspect, identified as 47-year-old Cecil Mains, left the scene in a gray pickup truck following the shooting. Officers later located the vehicle during a traffic stop on Five Points Road.
Mains was taken into custody without further incident and initially held on preliminary charges while investigators continued gathering evidence. He has remained in custody since his arrest.
Protective Order Filed Days Before Shooting
Court records show that Jeri Mains filed a petition for a protective order against her husband on Christmas Day, just three days before the shooting. The filing alleged ongoing abuse and threats directed at her and the children over several months.
Investigators have confirmed that the protective order request is part of the case review. Authorities have not said whether the order had been served prior to the shooting.
Formal Charges and Current Detention
On Monday, January 5, prosecutors formally filed a murder charge against Cecil Mains. He is currently being held without bond at the Marion County Jail.
Court records indicate that future hearings will determine how the case proceeds through the criminal justice system. Prosecutors have not released additional details regarding evidence or potential trial timelines.
Family Support Efforts Underway
In the days following the shooting, family members organized support efforts for the four children, who are now adjusting to life without their mother. A fundraising initiative was created to help cover daily living expenses, counseling needs, and long-term care.
Authorities say the investigation remains active. Additional information may be released as the case moves forward through the courts.
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