Forensic Files

The Adelson children take the stand. A missing woman's husband is arrested. And a deep dive on DNA.

Dateline NBC

  • Aug 28, 2025
  • 30:42
  • Full Episode
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<p>Two of Donna Adelson's children testify this week for the prosecution. In Northern California, a missing woman's husband is indicted for her murder more than a year after she vanished -- and a year and a half after he was indicted on felony domestic violence charges for an alleged attack on her. Plus, a former prosecutor on DNA's uses and pitfalls.</p><p> </p><p>Find out more about the cases covered each week here: www.datelinetruecrimeweekly.com</p><p> </p><p>To learn more about Dateline LIVE in Nashville on Sept. 28, and to get tickets, go here: https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline-event</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>

Brief Summary

Donna Adelson's murder trial continues, Tyler McCain charged with wife's murder, Cardi B faces civil trial for alleged assault.

Key points

  • Murder Charge with No Body. In a historic move, Shasta County is trying a murder case without a body.
  • Rob Adelson's Testimony. Rob Adelson testifies about his mother's controlling nature and her feelings towards Dan Markell.
  • Domestic Violence Allegations. Nikki's sisters reveal the history of domestic violence leading up to her disappearance.
  • Tyler McCain Indicted for Murder. Tyler McCain has been charged with the murder of his wife Nikki, who has been missing for almost a year.
  • Shocking Admission. Tyler McCain allegedly admitted to killing Nikki, according to a confidential informant.
  • Cardi B's Verbal Altercation. Cardi B's lawyer claims the incident was purely verbal, with no physical contact.

Episode highlights

Tension

60/ 100Some tension

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