Full Notification

To our Morgan Hill Community,

We are writing to share a critical update in the case surrounding the tragic loss of 18-year-old Marissa DiNapoli.

The Morgan Hill Police Department, in partnership with our allied law enforcement agencies, has arrested Martin Mendoza in connection with Marissa’s death. Mendoza is being charged with Penal Code 187—Murder. He was arrested at the California Mexico Border Crossing while trying to come back into the United States from Mexico.

This arrest marks a significant step toward justice in a case that has devastated Marissa’s loved ones and shaken our entire community.

Since Marissa was reported missing on June 30, our department has worked around the clock, pursuing every lead and leveraging all available resources to develop probable cause for an arrest warrant, track suspect movements, and coordinate the apprehension and return of Mendoza. This was a collaborative effort involving over 30 investigators. In addition to recognizing the dedicated investigative team, we also extend our gratitude to the following agencies for their partnership throughout the week:

• Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office
• Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Investigative Office
• Santa Clara County Victim Services
• Federal Bureau of Investigation
• Homeland Security Investigations
• United States Marshals Service
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Santa Clara County Task Forces
• Northern California Regional Intelligence Center
• Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Department
• Gilroy Police Department
• San Jose Police Department
• Santa Clara County Park Rangers
• Santa Clara County Crime Lab
• Santa Clara County Office of the Medical Examiner-Coroner

We would also like to thank our community members who have been tirelessly searching for Marissa and who alerted us to her location. Together, this network of agencies and the community has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth and upholding justice in memory of Marissa.

While Mendoza’s arrest may bring a measure of relief, it does not ease the heartbreak we all continue to feel. Marissa was a radiant, compassionate young woman with a future full of promise. Her loss is profound, and our grief is shared.  We are hosting three community healing events to help us come together in support and reflection:

• Morgan Hill Unified School District

Monday, July 7 from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
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.

• Community Grief & Healing Circle
  Tuesday, July 8 at 6:00 PM
  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.
• Awareness & Education: Early Warning Signs of Domestic Violence
  Wednesday, July 9 at 6:00 PM
  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.

Our deepest condolences remain with Marissa’s family. We will continue to stand with you, not just as law enforcement, but as neighbors, friends, and fellow members of our grieving community.

Marissa’s family released the following statement:
 
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.
 
We ask that the community continue to keep Marissa’s family in your thoughts and hearts while respecting their request for privacy. Their loss is immeasurable, but together, through compassion, education, and unity, we can honor Marissa’s life and work to prevent future tragedies.
 
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, please know that help is available. Your voice matters, and your safety is paramount. Coming forward is an act of courage—and one that can save lives.
 
This 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 [email protected].
 
Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the following link:
https://www.morganhill.ca.gov/FormCenter/Police-14/Morgan-Hill-Crime-Stoppers-88 Or by calling 1-800-222-TIPS.
 
MEDIA: We will be available for interviews on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 3:00 pm.
 
Please email [email protected] to coordinate for interviews.