Authorities in California have named a suspect in the murder of Rebecca Marodi, a respected fire captain from Ramona. The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office reports that the suspect is 53-year-old Yolanda Marodi, also known as Yolanda Olejniczak. She is described as having brown hair, standing 5 feet 2 inches tall, and weighing around 166 pounds. The police have stated that her current whereabouts are unknown.
According to Lieutenant Mike Krugh of the sheriff’s office, Yolanda and Rebecca had been married for about two years. It was also revealed that Yolanda had previously served time for manslaughter in connection with the death of a man believed to be her husband at that time.
Investigators are still working to understand the motives and circumstances surrounding this tragic event. The sheriff’s office has indicated they are committed to gathering more information about the case.
Rebecca Marodi, 49, was found in her home on the night of February 17 with several stab wounds. Despite the immediate efforts of first responders, she was pronounced dead at the scene. The case is being treated as a possible domestic violence situation, and authorities believe that Rebecca was familiar with her attacker.
As a captain with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, Rebecca had more than 30 years of service, primarily in Riverside County. She began her firefighting career as a volunteer in 1993 and climbed the ranks to become a captain in 2022, highly regarded for her commitment to the welfare of her colleagues.
Monika Evans, a neighbor, remarked that she never noticed any issues in Rebecca’s life, describing her as outgoing and kind. To honor her memory, Cal Fire crews held a procession from Rebecca’s home to the San Diego Medical Examiner’s Office.
The police are currently seeking help to locate Olejniczak and encourage anyone with information to reach out immediately.
