A woman accused of killing her wife, a respected California fire captain, and escaping to Mexico has been formally charged with murder in San Diego County, USA. This tragic case has shocked many across California and the firefighting community.
What Happened?
On February 17, 2025, Rebecca Marodi, a 49-year-old fire captain with Cal Fire, was found dead in her home near Ramona, California—about 40 miles from San Diego. Authorities say she was stabbed 34 times. Her wife of two years, Yolanda Olejniczak Marodi, was soon identified as the suspect.
Shortly after the crime, Yolanda’s car was spotted crossing the U.S.–Mexico border, just one hour after leaving the crime scene. A search across both countries was launched.
Suspect Captured in Mexico
After nearly five weeks on the run, Yolanda Olejniczak Marodi was found and arrested near a hotel in Baja California, Mexico, with the help of Mexican police. She was then handed over to U.S. Marshals and brought back to San Diego.
At her arraignment (court appearance) this week, she pleaded not guilty to the charge of murder. The court also added an allegation of using a deadly weapon.
No Bail Allowed
The judge ordered Yolanda to be held without bail, saying she had a “violent criminal history” and posed a danger to others. It was also revealed that she had previously served 11 years in prison for stabbing and killing her former husband in 2003.
A Tragic Ending Captured on Camera
Court documents show the horrifying final moments were captured by a Ring security camera at the couple’s home. The video reportedly shows Rebecca running and screaming:
“Yolanda! Please… I don’t want to die.”
Yolanda is heard responding:
“You should have thought about that before.”
The footage also shows her loading belongings and pets into her vehicle before fleeing the house.
The Motive: A Broken Relationship
Investigators believe the motive was Rebecca’s decision to leave the relationship. Rebecca had told Yolanda a week earlier that she wanted a divorce, according to Rebecca’s mother.
This case is now being treated as intimate partner homicide, a serious issue that continues to affect lives globally.
Remembering Rebecca Marodi
Rebecca Marodi had served in Cal Fire for over 30 years. She was described as a brave and compassionate firefighter who recently battled the Eaton Fire near Los Angeles.
At her memorial held in Temecula, hundreds of people gathered to pay tribute. One fire chief said:
“She was stolen from us at a time when we need more Fire Captain Marodis in the world.”
What’s Next?
Yolanda Olejniczak Marodi is scheduled to return to court on April 28 for a status conference and bail review. If found guilty, she faces 25 years to life in prison.