Manhunt underway after wife named as suspect in SoCal fire captain’s brutal stabbing death

A manhunt is currently underway in Southern California as authorities urgently search for Yolanda Marodi, the wife of Cal Fire Captain Rebecca “Beck” Marodi, who was tragically found stabbed to death inside her home. The San Diego Sheriff’s Office announced on Thursday that Yolanda Marodi, also known as Yolanda Olenjniczak, is wanted in connection with the brutal murder. This devastating incident has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving many in dismay and seeking answers.

The gruesome discovery was made on the evening of February 17, when deputies responded to a call reporting an assault with a deadly weapon at the Marodis’ residence. Upon arrival, they found Rebecca Marodi with multiple stab wounds. Despite immediate life-saving efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene. The medical examiner’s office later confirmed that her death was a result of homicide, marking the beginning of a thorough investigation. Authorities initially treated the case as a possible domestic violence incident, suggesting that Rebecca may have known her assailant. Yolanda Marodi, a 53-year-old woman described as 5’2″ tall and weighing 166 lbs with brown hair, remains at large as detectives work tirelessly to piece together the events surrounding the tragedy.

As the investigation unfolds, detectives are still working to determine the motive behind the murder. While the exact circumstances remain unclear, the sheriff’s office has emphasized that they are gathering all available information to establish the facts of the case. This is not Yolanda Marodi’s first brush with the law; 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 served a prison sentence of 13 years and eight months, from February 2004 to November 2013. This troubling history adds another layer of complexity to the case, raising questions about potential patterns of behavior and the nature of the relationship between Yolanda and Rebecca.

Rebecca Marodi, a dedicated and respected Cal Fire captain, had served her community for over 30 years, primarily in Riverside County. She began her career as a volunteer in Moreno Valley and had most recently played a role in battling the Eaton Fire. Her colleagues and the broader community have been deeply affected by her loss, remembering her as a compassionate mentor, a devoted public servant, and a loving partner. Cal Fire Riverside County expressed their grief in a statement, calling her passing a “profound loss” and highlighting her legacy of service and dedication. Her contributions to firefighting and her impact on those around her will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.

The couple’s relationship appeared to be loving and supportive, based on social media posts. Yolanda Marodi had shared heartfelt messages about her wife on Instagram, expressing gratitude for Rebecca’s presence in her life and celebrating their bond. In one post from 2023, she wrote, “No special occasion is ever needed to express my love for my amazing wife. I’m so lucky to have married someone that loves me for ME. She truly helps me be a better me, and my life has never been better since she’s been in it. So glad I gave love another chance.” Rebecca responded with a loving comment, “I love you my beautiful wife.” The couple had reportedly been together since 2022, and their public expressions of affection painted a picture of a happy and committed relationship. These posts now serve as a poignant reminder of the life they shared and the unexpected tragedy that has torn them apart.

As authorities continue their search for Yolanda Marodi, the community remains in mourning for Rebecca, a woman who dedicated her life to protecting and serving others. Her planned retirement later this year adds another layer of sadness to the situation, as friends, family, and colleagues are left to grapple with the loss of a vibrant life cut short. The case serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the devastating consequences of violence. For now, the focus remains on bringing Yolanda Marodi to justice and providing closure to those who loved Rebecca Marodi.