Woman Kills Roommate, Tries to Destroy Evidence With Mountain Dew®

When tragedy strikes, the details are often grim. But in the case of Nichole Maks, accused of murdering her 79-year-old roommate, Michael Cerasoli, the story took an unusual twist. Maks’ alleged attempt to destroy evidence with a can of Diet Mountain Dew^® adds an extraordinary layer to an already horrifying crime.

The Crime Unfolds

On July 1, 2023, police and firefighters responded to a house fire in Daytona Beach, Florida. Inside, they discovered the lifeless body of Michael Cerasoli, who had suffered multiple stab wounds to his chest and blunt force trauma to the head. The crime scene was disturbing: A bloody knife and two cell phones were found near the body, and part of the home appeared to have been deliberately set on fire. One of the phones belonged to Cerasoli’s roommate, 35-year-old Nichole Maks.

Investigators found traces of blood in the area where Maks reportedly stayed, leading them to suspect her involvement. The next morning, they located Maks in Holly Hill, Florida, walking the streets armed with a knife and a hammer. She had bloodstains on her clothes and legs, as well as a torn shirt.

A Shocking Attempt at Deception

During questioning, Maks gave conflicting stories about where she lived. Initially, she claimed to be homeless but later admitted to residing with Cerasoli. She stated she only ventured upstairs - where his body was found - to feed her pet spiders.

The interrogation took an unexpected turn when officers informed Maks that they would collect her DNA for testing. She requested a soda, and when handed a Diet Mountain Dew, she allegedly poured it over herself, soaking her body and hair. According to the police affidavit, she resisted officers’ attempts to take the can, seemingly trying to wash away evidence.

This bizarre act proved futile. Investigators found her DNA on the handle of the knife used in the murder, and Cerasoli’s blood was discovered on the blade.

Charges and Courtroom Behavior

Maks faces charges of first-degree murder, tampering with evidence, arson, and resisting arrest with violence. She is currently being held at the Volusia County Jail without bond. In an April 2024 court appearance, a bond hearing was delayed after the presiding judge disclosed a prior professional relationship with a police officer involved in the case. Observers noted Maks smiling and laughing during the proceedings, an unsettling demeanor given the gravity of the accusations.

Reflections on a Tragic Case

While the circumstances of the crime are shocking, they also highlight the complexities of forensic investigation, and the challenges law enforcement faces when pursuing justice. As the legal process continues to unfold, questions remain about the events leading to Cerasoli’s death and the alleged actions of his roommate. What led to such a violent act? Could it have been prevented? For now, the focus is on seeking answers - and justice - for Michael Cerasoli.

References: Florida Woman Accused of Murdering Roommate, Then Dumping Diet Mountain Dew on Herself to Hide Evidence | Florida Woman Allegedly Murders Roommate, Pours Soda On Herself To Destroy Evidence | Bond hearing delayed for woman who reportedly tried to destroy evidence with Mountain Dew