Recently released information from an arrest warrant sheds light on the heartbreaking final moments of California fire captain, Rebecca Marodi, who was found fatally stabbed in her Ramona home. The arrest warrant, filed in San Diego County Superior Court, reveals that Marodi, 49, was discovered with multiple stab wounds on February 17.
Marodi's mother called 911 around 9 p.m., and despite deputies arriving promptly, Marodi was pronounced dead at the scene about 15 minutes later. Surveillance footage from the couple's home captured part of the attack, showing Marodi being pursued by her wife, Yolanda Marodi, also known as Yolanda Olejniczak.
The footage depicts a harrowing scene where Marodi pleads for her life, while Olejniczak is seen holding a knife and eventually ordering Marodi back inside the home. Minutes later, Olejniczak is seen leaving the house with pets, luggage, and belongings, before crossing into Mexico less than an hour later.
An acquaintance of Olejniczak shared a text message she sent, where Olejniczak claimed Marodi had lied about leaving her for someone else, leading to a violent altercation. Marodi sustained multiple stab wounds to her neck, chest, and abdomen.
Olejniczak, who has a history of violence and was previously convicted of voluntary manslaughter, remains at large. Marodi, a dedicated firefighter with over 30 years of service, was remembered fondly by her colleagues at Cal Fire, who praised her commitment and passion for her work.
The Cal Fire San Diego Benevolent Fund has raised over $21,000 to support Marodi's family and cover funeral expenses. Marodi, who began her firefighting career as a volunteer in 1993, was not only a respected professional but also a devoted caregiver to her elderly mother.
