Authorities have uncovered alarming details surrounding the violent murder of Cal Fire Captain Rebecca Marodi, who was tragically fatally stabbed at her home on February 17, 2025. The prime suspect, her wife, Yolanda Olejniczak, remains at large, heightening concerns among investigators and the community alike.
Marodi, 49, dedicated over 30 years to Cal Fire, gaining respect and admiration for her work, including efforts against recent wildfires. Tragically, her life was cut short during what police believe to be a domestic dispute captured on video surveillance from their home located in Ramona, San Diego County.
According to reports from Eyewitness News and multiple other sources, the incident unfolded shortly before 9 p.m., when Marodi's mother called 911, stating her daughter had been stabbed. Upon arrival, deputies found Rebecca with severe injuries to her neck, chest, and abdomen, where she was later pronounced dead at the scene.
The heart-wrenching surveillance footage begins around 8:08 p.m. showing Marodi desperately running outside as Yolanda chased her. Rebecca can be heard pleading, "Yolanda! Please... I don’t want to die," as she encountered her attacker. It was soon after, according to the arrest warrant reviewed by the outlet, the suspect retorted, "You should have thought about this before."
Details collected from the arrest warrant shed light on the deadly altercation, with video capturing Yolanda appearing to brandish a knife, blood evident on her arms. Authorities believe the confrontation stemmed from Marodi's decision to leave the relationship, which she reportedly communicated to Yolanda about a week before her death. Referring to this potential motive, police have reported communications indicating Yolanda's emotional state leading up to the crime.
Days following the incident, Yolanda sent a text to a friend, writing, "Becky came home and told me she was leaving me, she met someone else, all the messages were lies. We had a big fight and I hurt her... I'm sorry." This text has raised significant questions about the nature of their relationship at the time of the incident.
The timeline paints a troubling picture of fatal domestic violence tied to emotional turmoil. It's worth noting this grim situation is not Yolanda's first brush with violent crime; she had previously served time for the manslaughter of her first spouse over 20 years ago. Records show she fatally stabbed James Olejniczak, her estranged husband, and was imprisoned until 2013.
After the murder of Rebecca Marodi, authorities believe Yolanda fled to Mexico. Just following the confrontation, video footage showed her packing possessions and pets before departing the scene in her Chevrolet Equinox. Homeland Security was later able to track her vehicle crossing the border shortly thereafter.
San Diego County Sheriff’s Department is actively searching for Yolanda Olejniczak and has since offered a reward of $1,000 for information leading to her capture. The public is urged to avoid any direct contact with the suspect and instead report sightings to law enforcement immediately.
Meanwhile, friends, family, and colleagues of Rebecca have gathered to mourn her untimely death. Vigils and fundraisers have sprung up to offer support to her family, demonstrating the community's deep respect and love for the dedicated firefighter. One sentiment was conveyed by Mindy Monor, who stated things like, "Nothing will replace not having her here." Fundraisers such as sewing quilt donations and community gatherings at local bars aim to honor Rebecca’s memory and support those she has left behind.
Cal Fire expressed their heartfelt condolences, emphasizing the long history and significance of Marodi’s contributions, stating, "The tragic loss of Captain Marodi is mourned by her family, friends and her Cal Fire family."
Regarding the broader impact of this tragic episode, experts highlight the alarming prevalence of domestic violence often connected to emotional conflict. They stress the importance of outreach and support systems for individuals facing similar issues. Such tragedies remind us of the extensive and complex nature of personal relationships, sometimes veering toward violence unexpectedly.
Authorities continue to work diligently, piecing together more evidence as they conduct this manhunt for Yolanda, with hopes of delivering justice for Rebecca Marodi and closure for her grieving family. Community members, law enforcement, and advocates for victims of domestic abuse remain watchful, mindful of the significant loss posed by this violent act.
This case remains under investigation, as both authorities and the community search for answers and solace following this heartbreaking event.