18-Year-Old Kills Parents to Fund Trump Assassination Attempt

Prosecutors say the young man was too dangerous to ever be released from prison.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Nikita Casap, an 18-year-old from Wisconsin, was sentenced to life in prison for killing his mother and stepfather in 2025 in order to fund his plan to assassinate former President Donald Trump using a drone and explosives. Prosecutors said Casap was too dangerous to ever be released, while his attorney argued he was influenced by online contacts and became isolated at school.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing threat of domestic extremism and the radicalization of young people online, as well as the challenges of preventing such violent acts even when warning signs are present.

The details

According to authorities, Casap shot and killed his mother, Tatiana Casap, and stepfather, Donald Mayer, at their home in Waukesha, Wisconsin in February 2025. He then stole $14,000, jewelry, passports, and his stepfather's gun before fleeing across the country. Casap was eventually arrested in Kansas after four days on the run. Federal investigators said Casap had been planning the assassination attempt, purchasing a drone and explosives, and communicating with others about his plot to overthrow the U.S. government.

  • On or around February 11, 2025, Casap allegedly shot and killed his mother and stepfather.
  • Casap lived with the decomposing bodies for two weeks before fleeing on February 28, 2025.
  • Casap was arrested during a traffic stop in Kansas on February 28, 2025 after four days on the run.

The players

Nikita Casap

An 18-year-old Wisconsin resident who killed his parents to fund his plan to assassinate former President Donald Trump.

Tatiana Casap

Casap's mother, who was shot and killed by her son.

Donald Mayer

Casap's stepfather, who was shot and killed by Casap.

Judge Ralph Ramirez

The judge who sentenced Casap to two life sentences with no chance of parole.

Lesli Boese

The district attorney who argued Casap was too dangerous to ever be released from prison.

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What they’re saying

“I choose to find he's not eligible for extended release because I do not know ... when and if and whether a profound and significant change can occur.”

— Judge Ralph Ramirez

“Children are more than their worst deeds.”

— Paul Rifelj, Casap's attorney

“I thought I was part of a revolution. I thought I was part of a war. I told myself bad things had to happen.”

— Nikita Casap

What’s next

The judge's decision to sentence Casap to two life sentences with no chance of parole means he will likely spend the rest of his life in prison.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for greater mental health resources and intervention for young people who show signs of radicalization, as well as stronger safeguards to prevent dangerous individuals from obtaining the means to carry out violent acts.