Martin Mendoza Jr., the person of interest in the slaying of Morgan Hill teen Marissa DiNapoli, was arrested Monday on suspicion of murder, Morgan Hill police confirmed.
Mendoza was detained Sunday in Imperial County, near the Mexico border, the sheriff’s office there confirmed Monday morning. He was arrested at the California-Mexico Border Crossing while trying to come back into the U.S. from Mexico.
Mendoza was on a no-bail hold at a facility in El Centro before he was arrested, authorities said.
DiNapoli was reported missing June 30. Her body was found two days later near Anderson Lake in Morgan Hill.
DiNapoli’s family released a statement Monday morning:
“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.
“We appreciate the love and support from those who have reached out to us. 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.
“Thank you for understanding and respecting our wishes during this deeply personal time.”
The investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact Detective Kyle Tolentino at (669) 253-4962 or via email at kyle.tolentino@morganhill.ca.gov.
Source: NBC Bay Area