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 told NBC Bay Area Monday morning. He was arrested at the California-Mexico Border Crossing while trying to come back into the U.S. from Mexico.
“We had come up with an apprehension plan with our federal partners, so that if he did come back across, we would be ready for it,” said Mario Ramirez of the Morgan Hill Police Department.
Mendoza was on a no-bail hold at a facility in El Centro before he was arrested, authorities said.
Online records showed Mendoza was at the Santa Clara County Main Jail by Monday night.
“What this tells me is he is still being processed. They will have to make a charging decision very quickly and get him arraigned within 48 hours or he will have to be released,” said legal analyst Steven Clark. “I think the fact that they have brought him back from where he entered from Mexico suggests that they have a very strong case for charging, now the question will be can they prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt in court.”
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 Morgan Hill Police Department is hosting three community healing events this week:
- 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday: In conjunction with the Morgan Hill Unified School District, support services will be available at Central High School for any student or staff member who needs a safe space to process their emotions, reflect, or speak with a counselor. Mental health professionals will be present throughout the week to offer support and resources.
- 6 p.m. Tuesday: Community Grief & Healing Circle at Morgan Hill Community Cultural Center (El Toro Room). This safe and supportive space will be facilitated to guide shared reflection and healing, honoring Marissa’s life and providing comfort to all who grieve.
- 6 p.m. Wednesday: Awareness & Education: Early Warning Signs of Domestic Violence at Morgan Hill Community Cultural Center (Hiram Room). This important conversation, led by experienced counselor Josette Benavidez-Hatcher, will focus on recognizing early signs of domestic violence and promoting safe, healthy relationships. Support organizations will be present to offer resources and guidance.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, police said. 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