Intense Search Underway Following Fire Captain’s Tragic Death

Firefighter gear on a fire truck bumper.

The alarming manhunt for Yolanda Marodi, in connection with the tragic death of fire captain Rebecca Marodi, unfolds like a page from a crime thriller.

Key Takeaways

A manhunt is underway for Yolanda Marodi, wanted for the murder of her wife, Rebecca Marodi.
Rebecca was found stabbed to death on February 17 in her home.
The San Diego Sheriff’s Office has identified Yolanda Marodi as the suspect.
The incident is being investigated as a potential domestic violence case.
Yolanda Marodi has a history of violence, with a prior conviction for voluntary manslaughter.

The Search for Yolanda Marodi

Authorities in California are in the midst of a manhunt for Yolanda Marodi. Her wife, Rebecca Marodi, a well-regarded fire captain, was found fatally stabbed. The incident occurred in their shared home in San Diego County on February 17. The suspect, Yolanda, is believed to be on the run, possibly attempting to evade capture by fleeing towards the Mexican border.

The San Diego Sheriff’s Office, which is urging public cooperation, has identified Yolanda Marodi as the primary suspect. She is believed to be in possession of a small, white dog and was last seen driving a silver 2013 Chevrolet Equinox. “Out of an abundance of caution, the Sheriff’s Office has alerted authorities on both sides of the border about this suspect,” said the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.

🇺🇸CAL FIRE CAPTAIN MURDERED—WIFE, A CONVICTED KILLER, ON THE RUN

Yolanda Marodi already did time for one killing.

Now, she’s accused of stabbing her wife, Cal Fire Captain Rebecca Marodi, to death in their San Diego County home.

The 53-year-old fugitive vanished after the… pic.twitter.com/0sScgkAtR5

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) February 21, 2025

Marodi’s Troubling Past

Yolanda Marodi’s criminal history is now under scrutiny, intensifying the urgency of the case. She was previously convicted in 2000 for the voluntary manslaughter of her estranged husband, a pattern that closely aligns with the current accusations. Serving over 13 years, she was released in 2013. Law enforcement and the public are keenly observing this repeat of violent behavior.

Rebecca and Yolanda had what was described by Rebecca’s ex-wife as a turbulent relationship. They had been together for over two years, with Rebecca planning to retire soon. The San Diego Sheriff’s Office is treating the case as a possible domestic violence incident, a detail that has heightened public and official concern.

Rebecca’s Mourning Community

Rebecca Marodi’s death leaves a void in her professional circle and community. Her colleagues mourn her passing, emphasizing her dedicated service over a 30-year career with Cal Fire. Her contribution is hailed as a legacy of mentorship and service that will resonate within the firefighting community for years to come. “The Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department expressed gratitude for the support during this difficult time, mourning the loss of Fire Captain Rebecca Marodi,” as noted by the Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department:

“Her legacy of mentorship, service, and dedication will be felt for years to come. Her passing is a profound loss to her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside her.”

The search for answers continues as the prospect of Yolanda’s capture remains a priority for the authorities and the public alike. Law enforcement stresses the importance of public assistance in this case and encourages anyone with information to reach out to the San Diego Sheriff’s Office homicide unit.