10/27/2025
Trust Turned Tragic: The Jessica Rose Nichols Story
In Oroville, California, a peaceful home turned into the scene of heartbreak on November 6, 2020.
That evening, 22-year-old Mateo Lange, a kind-hearted young man known for helping his neighbors, was found unresponsive in his house.
At first, family and friends were confused there were no signs of a break-in, and Mateo had no known enemies. But investigators soon began piecing together what really happened, and the truth pointed shockingly close to home.
Mateo’s girlfriend, 27-year-old Jessica Rose Nichols, had been living with him at the time. Over the next few months, evidence revealed that a heated argument between them had spiraled out of control, leading to the tragic end that stunned everyone who knew them.
For years, the case dragged through court as Jessica faced serious charges. Then, in September 2025, nearly five years after Mateo’s passing, Jessica entered a no-contest plea to first-degree homicide. The court sentenced her to 35 years to life in state prison.
Mateo’s family, still heartbroken, described him as someone full of life and laughter a young man who wanted to start his own business and make his parents proud. They said their only comfort is knowing justice has finally been served.
This case reminds us how quickly love can turn dangerous when anger and control take over. Always protect your peace, and never ignore the signs of a toxic relationship. 💔