A manhunt is underway as authorities search for 53-year-old Yolanda Marodi, who is wanted in connection with the fatal stabbing of her wife, Cal Fire Captain Rebecca “Beck” Marodi. The San Diego Sheriff’s Office announced that homicide detectives had identified Yolanda Marodi, also known as Yolanda Olenjniczak, as the primary suspect in the case.
The incident occurred on the evening of February 17 when deputies responded to a call at the couple’s home regarding an assault with a deadly weapon. Upon arrival, they found Rebecca Marodi with multiple stab wounds. Despite life-saving efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene. The medical examiner later ruled her death a homicide.
Authorities initially considered the case a potential domestic violence incident and confirmed that the victim was familiar with the suspect. However, they have not yet determined a motive for the killing. Investigators continue to gather information to establish the circumstances surrounding the crime.
According to officials, Yolanda Marodi is 5’2″ tall, weighs 166 pounds, and has brown hair. Law enforcement urges anyone with information about her whereabouts to contact authorities immediately.
Further investigation revealed that Yolanda Marodi had a prior conviction for voluntary manslaughter. In 2000, she was charged with murder in San Bernardino County for allegedly stabbing a man to death. She later pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter and was sentenced to 13 years and eight months in prison, serving time from February 2004 until her release in November 2013.
Rebecca Marodi had served more than 30 years with Cal Fire, primarily in Riverside County, beginning as a volunteer in Moreno Valley. Most recently, she was involved in battling the Eaton Fire. Cal Fire officials expressed their grief over her passing, calling her death a profound loss and acknowledging her legacy of mentorship and dedication.
Social media posts indicate that Rebecca and Yolanda Marodi had been together since 2022. In a 2023 Instagram post, Yolanda Marodi spoke about her love for her wife, to which Rebecca Marodi responded with affection. Rebecca Marodi had reportedly been planning to retire later this year.
