Phoenix police confirmed a murder-suicide on Christmas Eve that killed three people. The widower of Maricopa County Attorney Allister Adel, 47-year-old David De Nitto, was the perpetrator. Phoenix Police say the horrific act occurred during a holiday gathering.
Phoenix Tragedy: Murder-Suicide Claims Lives of Two Women Linked to Widower of Former County Attorney
Around 11:30 p.m., police responded to a shooting near 2nd Avenue and Bethany Home Road. After arriving, they found two gunshot-wounded ladies. Medical personnel transported 47-year-old Maryalice Cash and 83-year-old Cynthia Domini to the hospital, but they died. David De Nitto, the suspect, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Molly Cash, aka “Molly,” dated De Nitto. Property records from Adel’s time as county attorney show both lived there. De Nitto’s relationship with Cynthia Domini is unknown, although all three were at the holiday party where a debate turned violent.
The tragedy shook the town, especially given Allister Adel’s earlier struggles. She died last year from health issues after publicly admitting to seeking anxiety treatment and indulging in “unhealthy coping behaviors,” including food disorders and alcohol usage. Adel resigned in March 2022 and died a month later after facing professional criticism.
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Community Mourns Amidst Tragedy
Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell expressed grief and requested community help for Adel’s children. Mitchell stressed understanding, kindness, and privacy throughout this tough period.
Three deaths in a domestic dispute show the catastrophic effects of domestic violence. As officials investigate this tragedy, the community mourns the victims and considers life’s fragility.