Aileese Tucker’s Family Speaks Following Shane Carie’s Initial Hearing
VINCENNES, Ind. (We Are Knox County) - Aileese Tucker’s family says they are still searching for answers as the case against the man charged in connection with her death moves forward.
Kristina Pickel and Troy Pickel spoke with We Are Knox County Thursday following Shane Michael Carie’s initial hearing in Knox Superior Court.
Carie is charged with murder and arson in connection with the September 21 house fire that killed 19-year-old Aileese Tucker.
During Thursday’s hearing, a not guilty plea was entered on Carie’s behalf.
Much of the hearing focused on bond, with prosecutors arguing Carie should remain in custody and his attorney asking the court to set a bond. The judge ultimately ruled Carie will remain held without bond.
Tucker’s family said they were relieved by that decision.
“That was the last thing I wanted him to be, is out,” Kristina Pickel said.
“I was so glad that they decided to have no bond and keep him in there.”
Following the hearing, the Pickels also spoke about knowing Carie before the fire, the questions they still have and the support they have received from the community.
The family said they knew Carie through their ministry and homeless outreach work.
Troy Pickel said they had known him since 2025 and had watched him make progress in his life.
“We’ve seen Shane do really well. We’ve seen him grow in his faith. We’ve seen him gain employment, gain an apartment.”
He said the family is still struggling to understand how they reached this point.
“We just can’t even fathom that this is where we’re at today.”
Kristina Pickel said one question continues to weigh heavily on her.
“I would just want to know why. Why would you do this? Why would you even think about this? Just have it in your heart to tell us why and confess.”
Investigators have not publicly released a motive in the case. Carie has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.
The Pickels said the support they have received from the community has helped them through the days since Tucker’s death.
Troy Pickel thanked those who have called, texted, donated and attended events supporting the family.
“We are very, very thankful. It’s probably what’s brought us through this terrible time, is the local support.”
Kristina said accepting that support has been an adjustment.
“We’re not used to receiving. We’re used to giving, so it’s been hard for us to just have people give us. But we are so blessed and thankful.”
Beyond the court case, the family said they want people to remember Tucker for who she was.
Kristina described her daughter as positive, independent and determined.
“She was always positive. I mean, even if she was kind of having a bad day, she would kind of be a little tough, but then she’d be smiling and making jokes and doing her little dancing.”
Carie remains in the Knox County Jail without bond.
His jury trial is currently scheduled for December 15.
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