BOONE COUNTY, Ind. – In a recent trial in Boone County, jurors reached a verdict in the case of Andrew Wilhoite, who was accused of killing his wife. The jury found him guilty of voluntary manslaughter, avoiding a murder conviction. The incident occurred in 2022, leading to the death of his wife, Elizabeth “Nikki” Wilhoite.
According to court documents, Nikki failed to show up for work on March 25, 2022, after filing for divorce just a week earlier. The investigation revealed that there was blood found in various areas of their home, including the master bedroom, suggesting a violent altercation had taken place.
During the trial, Wilhoite claimed that his wife had confronted him about having an affair and had been drinking heavily the night before her disappearance. He described a heated argument that turned physical, culminating in him pushing her out of their home and ultimately striking her with a heavy cement flowerpot.
Wilhoite’s defense included explanations for the blood found at the scene, attributing it to a nosebleed he had experienced. He recounted the events of the night in question, detailing how the argument escalated and resulted in the tragic outcome.
The jury deliberated for hours and was initially unable to reach a unanimous decision on a murder conviction. However, the judge presented the option of considering a charge of voluntary manslaughter if they believed the death resulted from a moment of sudden heat.
Ultimately, the jury decided on the charge of voluntary manslaughter, a Level 2 felony that carries a potential prison sentence of 10 to 30 years. Wilhoite is set to be sentenced on June 4, 2024, where the final repercussions of the verdict will be determined.
The case has highlighted the complexities of domestic disputes and the legal implications of fatal incidents within relationships. The outcome serves as a reminder of the serious consequences that can result from moments of intense conflict and violence.