Update: Man Decapitates Mom on New Year's Eve

A 23-year-old Oldsmar man faces first-degree murder charges related to the decapitation death of his mother on New Year’s Eve.

According to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, deputies received a call around 7:30 p.m. from Mario Gomez, 27, who told dispatchers his brother had killed their mother, cutting off her head.

When deputies arrived at the 1924 Sheffield Court home, they discovered a woman with “obvious trauma” and learned that the suspect had left the home.

Christian Gomez was located outside 1802 Driftwood Circle riding his bicycle a short time later. He tried to flee, but deputies caught up with him.

Christian Gomez, 23, was taken into custody and charged with first-degree murder.

The sheriff’s office said Maria Suarez-Cassagne, 48, was killed with an ax. Her head was found in a trash can. Her body nearby.

Deputies say tensions at the home had been high for several days. Christian Gomez thought his mother was paying too much attention to his older brother, The Tampa Tribune reported. 

Christian Gomez/Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office

This story was updated at 5 p.m. Jan. 1 to reflect the latest information provided by the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office.