Missing California teen found dead; police seeking boyfriend Martin Mendoza
Marissa DiNapoli, 18, was found deceased near a California park days after disappearing; her boyfriend Martin Mendoza is now wanted by authorities.
Police in Morgan Hill, California, are actively searching for 21-year-old Martin Mendoza, identified as a person of interest in the death of 18-year-old Marissa DiNapoli. DiNapoli’s body was discovered in a deteriorated state on July 2 under a bridge near Anderson Lake County Park, an area familiar to both her and Mendoza.
DiNapoli was reported missing by her family on June 29 after failing to return home from what she described as a night spent with a friend. On the evening of June 28, she texted her family to assure them she would return the following day, but never arrived.
Surveillance footage captured the last known moments of DiNapoli alive on June 29, leaving a home alongside Mendoza. The footage reportedly includes audio of Mendoza confronting DiNapoli, asking, “Why would you text your ex?”
Marissa’s sister, Monice Ramirez, shared with ABC 7 that after seeing the video, she realized Mendoza returned with Marissa’s car, but Marissa herself did not.
A discovery close to home
Following an extensive search involving local and federal law enforcement, a body was located near Anderson Lake County Park on July 2. Initially, police were unable to confirm the identity due to the body’s deteriorated state, suggesting it had been at the location for several days.
Authorities confirmed the next day that the remains belonged to DiNapoli, devastating her family and the local community.
“We are devastated to inform you that Marissa’s body was found last night,” Morgan Hill Police Department (MHPD) announced. “This is not the outcome any of us wanted. Marissa was a vibrant member of our Morgan Hill community with a bright future ahead of her.”
DiNapoli’s family has publicly expressed their grief, asking for privacy as they mourn.
Her stepmother, expressing deep anger toward Mendoza, wrote on social media: “This is every parent’s worst nightmare. She was only 18 and had her entire amazing life ahead of her. My only hope now is that Marissa receives the justice she deserves.”
Boyfriend labeled as dangerous and obsessive
Marissa’s best friend, Jaslyn Gutierrez, told NBC Bay Area that Marissa had previously expressed fear for her safety around Mendoza, describing him as obsessive and capable of harm.
“Marissa told me firsthand that [Mendoza] would kill her, that he would not stop, that he’s obsessed with her,” Gutierrez explained.
Police have labeled Mendoza as uncooperative and elusive, urging him directly to come forward.
“We want to find out what happened. It is important that we bring closure to Marissa’s family,” MHPD Captain Mario Rodriguez pleaded publicly.
Mendoza is believed to be driving a white Toyota Camry, potentially bearing license plates CW87W00 or 9PTM351. Authorities urge anyone with information to anonymously contact police through the city’s website.
As the community continues to mourn, police stress the urgency of finding Mendoza to uncover answers about Marissa’s tragic final moments.
The community awaits justice, hoping to bring closure to a young life ended too soon.
