Yolanda Olejniczak Marodi, a 54-year-old woman from California, has admitted to the murder of her fire captain spouse. She pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the death of her wife, Rebecca “Becky” Marodi. Rebecca, 49, was a long-serving firefighter in California and was found stabbed at their home in Ramona in February 2025.
During the court proceedings, Yolanda Marodi responded “Guilty” when asked about her plea to the charge of second-degree murder. The case drew attention due to Marodi’s previous conviction for the stabbing death of her former husband, James Joseph Olejniczak. She had been convicted of voluntary manslaughter in that incident in 2003 and was released in 2013.
Rebecca Marodi was attacked on February 17, 2025, with multiple stab wounds noted. Prosecutors highlighted surveillance footage showing Rebecca attempting to escape their home while being pursued by Yolanda. Authorities found Rebecca with severe injuries to her neck, chest, and back, which were consistent with being stabbed.
Following the attack, investigators claimed that Yolanda Marodi fled to Mexico, staying there for over a month before her arrest in Mexicali. She was taken into custody at a hotel near the U.S. border and returned to the United States.
Initially, Marodi pleaded not guilty to Rebecca’s murder but later changed her plea to guilty for second-degree murder. Her sentencing is set for September 2.
Rebecca Marodi had over 30 years of service with Cal Fire, primarily in Riverside County. Her career with Cal Fire began as a volunteer in Moreno Valley, and she was involved in fighting significant fires, such as the Eaton Fire. The Riverside Division of Cal Fire acknowledged her death, stating, “Her legacy of mentorship, service, and dedication will be felt for years to come.” Her passing represents a significant loss to those who knew and worked with her.