RAMONA, CA – The wife of a Cal Fire captain found fatally stabbed in her Ramona home has been identified as a suspect, according to officials on Thursday. Law enforcement announced that Yolanda Marodi, 53, who once served time in prison for a prior homicide, is believed to be responsible for the death of her spouse, Rebecca Marodi.

Authorities are currently on the lookout for Yolanda Marodi, who is suspected to be driving a silver 2013 Chevrolet Equinox with California plates reading 8BQJ420. Rebecca, a respected firefighter officer with over 30 years at Cal Fire, was found with multiple stab wounds in her residence located on the 20200 block of Rancho Villa Road earlier this week.

Yolanda and Rebecca Marodi had been married for slightly more than two years, with descriptions of the relationship emerging as troubled. Lilia Phleger, Rebecca’s previous partner, labeled the relationship as toxic, citing Yolanda’s possessive behavior and jealousy over Rebecca’s long-standing friendships.

“You never wish harm upon someone you once loved,” Phleger stated, reflecting on the tragic incident occurring in the home she once shared with Rebecca. She further elaborated on Yolanda’s jealousy, which reportedly strained Rebecca’s connections with others.

The investigation into this latest incident is shedding light on Yolanda’s past criminal history. She was incarcerated for over thirteen years due to involvement in the 2000 voluntary manslaughter of James Joseph Olejniczak in San Bernardino County, having been released under parole in 2013, according to court records.

The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation, seeking to uncover the motives and circumstances of Rebecca’s murder. They are urging the public for assistance in locating Yolanda Marodi.

Captain Rebecca Marodi had a notable tenure at Cal Fire, beginning her career as a volunteer in 1993, later advancing to a staff firefighter position, and finally earning a promotion to captain. Her contributions extended beyond firefighting; she was also pivotal in the Peer Support and Hazmat teams.

“Captain Marodi’s dedication and mentorship were profound,” Cal Fire officials commented in a statement. “Her passing is a significant loss to all who had the honor of working alongside her.”

The public is encouraged to contact the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit with any information regarding Yolanda Marodi’s whereabouts as the search intensifies.