The search for 18-year-old Marissa DiNapoli ended in tragedy last week when her body was discovered near Lake Anderson. Now, authorities have arrested her ex-boyfriend, Martin Mendoza, in connection with her death. DiNapoli was last heard from on June 28 at 9:16 p.m., when she texted family members to say she would be staying with a friend that evening.
When her family didn’t hear from her the next day, they became concerned and reported her missing to the Morgan Hill Police Department. A wide search effort followed, leading police to Lake Anderson, where they found a body on July 2. The Santa Clara County Coroner’s Office confirmed the identity as DiNapoli on July 3.
According to police, DiNapoli was last seen leaving a residence with Mendoza, her ex-boyfriend, on the morning of June 29 at approximately 9:45 a.m. Authorities identified him early in the investigation as a person of interest and, on Sunday, arrested him at the California-Mexico border as he attempted to re-enter the United States. He is now facing a murder charge.
“While Mendoza’s arrest may bring a measure of relief, it does not ease the heartbreak we all continue to feel,” the Morgan Hill Police Department said in an official statement. “Marissa was a radiant, compassionate young woman with a future full of promise.”
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DiNapoli’s family also issued a heartfelt message thanking the community for their support during the painful search and aftermath. “The loss of our beloved Marissa deeply saddens us, and at this time, our family kindly asks for privacy as we grieve and navigate this difficult journey,” the family wrote.
“In honor of Marissa’s memory, we kindly ask that no GoFundMe accounts or donation pages be created. If you wish to show support, please do so through your prayers, kind words, and cherished memories.”
Tara Guerrero, DiNapoli’s former teacher at Opportunity Youth Academy, played an active role in supporting the family during the search. She told NBC Bay Area how deeply Marissa had impacted her life.
“Every student in my class touches my heart, but her especially,” Guerrero said. “She had the brightest smile that would light up every room. She was friends and friendly with everyone who came into our classroom.
She’s just one of those kids who leaves a mark on your heart, and I have a broken heart right now.” The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to gather more details surrounding DiNapoli’s death.