A tragic incident in San Diego County has left the community mourning the loss of a dedicated Cal Fire captain, Rebecca “Becky” Marodi, who was fatally stabbed. Authorities have identified 53-year-old Yolanda Marodi, previously known as Yolanda Olenjniczak, as the primary suspect in the case. This is not the first time Marodi has faced legal troubles related to violence; she was sentenced in 2004 to 11 years in prison for fatally stabbing her then-husband after pleading guilty to voluntary manslaughter.
On Monday evening, deputies responded to a report of an assault with a deadly weapon at a residence in Ramona, where they discovered Marodi with multiple stab wounds. Despite immediate treatment by deputies at the scene and subsequent care from Cal Fire paramedics, she was pronounced dead.
Yolanda Marodi, who was married to Becky for approximately two years, is currently at large, and authorities believe she may have fled to Mexico. She is described as 5-foot-2, weighing around 166 pounds, with brown hair.
The San Diego County sheriff’s office is investigating the incident as a potential case of domestic violence. Marodi had dedicated over 30 years of service to Cal Fire, during which she started her career as a volunteer in Moreno Valley and recently played a role in battling the Eaton Fire. She had plans to retire later this year, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and positivity that deeply impacted her colleagues and the community.
John Clingingsmith, a public information officer with Cal Fire Riverside County, who knew Marodi for three decades, expressed the profound loss felt by her colleagues. “She was always very positive… Always had a smile on her face,” said Clingingsmith, highlighting the warmth that characterized Marodi’s presence.
This devastating event serves as a reminder of the challenges faced within personal relationships and the crucial conversations surrounding domestic violence. The community continues to grieve the loss of a passionate and vibrant firefighter who dedicated her life to serving others.