Family Tragedy Leaves Commnuity Seeking Answers After Shocking Incident

Crime scene with yellow tape and parked car

Authorities are on an intense pursuit to locate Yolanda Marodi, sought in connection with the lethal stabbing of Cal Fire Captain Rebecca “Beck” Marodi, as a grieving firefighting community reels from this tragic loss.

Key Takeaways

A manhunt is underway for Yolanda Marodi, wanted in the murder of her wife, Fire Captain Rebecca Marodi.
Rebecca was found dead on February 17 at her home, suffering from multiple stab wounds.
The San Diego Sheriff’s Office has identified Yolanda as the suspect, considered armed and dangerous.
Yolanda has a history of domestic violence and was previously convicted of manslaughter.
The case has captivated the nation due to its complex nature and tragic impact on the local firefighting community.

Murder and Community Mourning

The recent murder of Cal Fire Captain Rebecca “Beck” Marodi has sent shockwaves through the tightly-knit community of firefighters. On February 17, Rebecca was found stabbed to death in her San Diego County home. Detectives, now piecing together the events, have identified Rebecca’s wife, Yolanda Marodi, as the prime suspect in this brutal crime. The San Diego Sheriff’s Office has amplified efforts by alerting authorities on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border.

Yolanda Marodi, who also goes by the last name Olejniczak, has a troubling history with violence. Authorities confirmed that she had previously spent over a decade in prison for the manslaughter of her estranged husband in 2000. With Rebecca’s passing, the CAL Fire/Riverside County Fire Department has expressed profound grief, remembering Rebecca as “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.”

🇺🇸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

An Intensive Manhunt

The search for Yolanda, who stands 5’2″ and weighs 166 pounds, involves multiple law enforcement agencies. Reports have surfaced that she was last observed driving a silver 2013 Chevrolet Equinox accompanied by a small white dog. Between her prior convictions and the brutal killing of Rebecca, authorities are on high alert, treating the situation as a severe domestic violence incident.

As the investigation proceeds, law enforcement continues to seek the public’s assistance in locating Yolanda. As they work tirelessly to solve this case, the overwhelming sense of loss felt by Rebecca’s colleagues and friends remains palpable. With a career spanning three decades, her influence on those who worked alongside her will not cease with her untimely demise.

A Troubling Pattern of Violence

This case shines a spotlight on the pattern of violent behavior exhibited by Yolanda Marodi. In 2004, after being convicted of voluntary manslaughter and other charges, she served over 13 years in prison. The circumstances surrounding these events only deepen the societal call to prevent domestic violence tragedies. Law enforcement urges anyone with information about Yolanda’s whereabouts to contact the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit.

Authorities continue to be vigilant as this case unfolds, raising awareness and prompting action to prevent future tragedies. As with all domestically rooted conflicts, community-based solutions and heightened awareness play critical roles in bringing about change. The tragedy of Rebecca Marodi’s death emphasizes the need for protecting and supporting all victims affected by domestic violence.