(Thechieftainspear) – After an extensive five-week search, authorities have arrested the suspected killer of a 49-year-old Cal Fire captain in Mexico, according to multiple reports.
Captain Rebecca “Becky” Marodi, who served at the French Valley Cal Fire Station, was found fatally stabbed in her Ramona home on February 17. Her mother made the grim discovery, finding Marodi suffering from multiple stab wounds to the neck, chest, and back.
Emergency responders rushed to the residence on Rancho Villa Road around 9 p.m., but despite their efforts, Marodi succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
Estranged Wife Identified as Suspect
Investigators quickly identified Marodi’s estranged wife, 53-year-old Yolanda Marodi, as the primary suspect. A doorbell camera reportedly captured footage of Yolanda chasing Rebecca moments before the fatal attack.
Authorities believe the violent altercation erupted around 8 p.m., just before Rebecca’s mother called law enforcement. Less than 90 minutes later, Homeland Security records show that Yolanda had crossed the border into Mexico.
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The following day, investigators say Yolanda sent a message to a known associate, admitting to the attack. “Rebecca came home and told me she was leaving me. We had a big fight, and I hurt her. I’m sorry,” the message allegedly read.
A History of Violence
This is not the first time Yolanda has been linked to a deadly domestic dispute. Under her previous name, Yolanda Olejniczak, she served 13 years in prison for voluntary manslaughter after the 2000 killing of her then-husband, Jim Olejniczak, in Riverside County.
Arrest in Mexico and Extradition
On February 22, authorities in Mexico located and apprehended Yolanda in the Ferrocarril neighborhood of Mexicali, near a hotel. She was then transferred to U.S. Marshals at the border, where she will be processed and formally charged with murder, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.
The case continues to unfold as officials work to bring justice for Rebecca Marodi and her grieving loved ones .
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