Waukesha Man Sentenced for Killing Parents in Plot to Assassinate President

Nikita Casap, 18, pleaded guilty to murdering his mother and stepfather in January and will be sentenced today.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Nikita Casap, an 18-year-old from Waukesha, Wisconsin, is set to be sentenced today for the murders of his mother, Tatiana Kassab, and his stepfather, Donald Maier. Casap pleaded guilty in January to the killings, which were part of a plot to assassinate former President Donald Trump. Federal court records indicate Casap killed his parents for money in an attempt to carry out the assassination.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing threat of domestic extremism and the potential for violence from individuals radicalized online. It also raises questions about mental health resources and early intervention for troubled youth to prevent such tragedies.

The details

According to police reports, Casap lived in the home with his parents' bodies for 12 days before fleeing to Kansas, where he was found with his mother's jewelry and thousands of dollars in cash. Investigators say the home appeared ransacked, and candles were found near one of the bodies.

  • Casap killed his parents in March 2026.
  • Casap pleaded guilty to the murders in January 2026.
  • Casap is being sentenced for the killings on March 5, 2026.

The players

Nikita Casap

An 18-year-old from Waukesha, Wisconsin who pleaded guilty to murdering his mother and stepfather as part of a plot to assassinate the former president.

Tatiana Kassab

Casap's mother, who was killed by her son in March 2026.

Donald Maier

Casap's stepfather, who was also killed by Casap in March 2026.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“No one understands what happened, why this happened. And I'm looking to give them some answers, that I can't get it to them without talking to you. So you can tell me.”

— Nikita Casap (wisn.com)

What’s next

The judge will decide Casap's sentence today, with prosecutors seeking a lengthy prison term.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for improved mental health resources and early intervention to identify and support troubled youth before they turn to violence. It also highlights the ongoing threat of domestic extremism and the potential for radicalization online.