An urgent search gripped the community of Morgan Hill after 18-year-old Marissa DiNapoli failed to return home on June 28. In a late-night text, she had assured her family she would be staying with a friend. But when calls went unanswered and days passed, concern quickly grew into fear.
On July 2, that fear was confirmed. Hikers discovered a body beneath a bridge near Anderson Lake County Park. The following day, the Santa Clara County Coroner’s Office identified the remains as Marissa, who had been reported missing just days earlier. The news sent shockwaves through her community and prompted a renewed push for answers.
Authorities have identified 21-year-old Martin Mendoza, Marissa’s boyfriend, as a person of interest in the case. He was reportedly the last person seen with her. Surveillance footage shows the couple leaving a residence on June 29—the same location where Marissa’s car was later found abandoned. The video also shows Mendoza returning alone in her vehicle.
In a portion of the footage, audio reportedly captures a tense exchange between the two. Friends say Marissa had previously expressed concern about Mendoza’s behavior, noting that she feared his jealousy could become dangerous. Those concerns have resurfaced in the wake of recent developments.
Law enforcement agencies across the state are now involved in the search for Mendoza. He is believed to be driving a white Toyota Camry with license plates CW87W00 or 9PTM351. According to the Morgan Hill Police Department, efforts to contact him and his family have so far been unsuccessful.
Marissa’s loved ones have turned to the public for support, both mourning her loss and calling for justice. Her sister, Monice Ramirez, described the heartbreak of watching the surveillance video and emphasized the need for answers. The family has released a statement thanking the community for its compassion while asking for privacy during this difficult time.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. “Bringing him in is vital,” said Captain Mario Rodriguez of the Morgan Hill Police Department. “We owe it to Marissa’s family to pursue every lead and find the truth.”
The case has captured the attention of communities across California, where many remain hopeful that new information will lead to a resolution and ensure Marissa’s memory is honored.
