Morgan Hill, California Man Martin Mendoza Arrested at Border for Death of Ex-Girlfriend

Morgan Hill, California Man Martin Mendoza Arrested at Border for Death of Ex-Girlfriend

MORGAN HILL, CALIFORNIA — Martin Mendoza, a 20-year-old resident of Morgan Hill, was arrested at the California-Mexico border in connection with the death of his ex-girlfriend, 18-year-old Marissa DiNapoli.

According to Morgan Hill Police, Mendoza was taken into custody on Monday while attempting to re-enter the United States from Mexico. Authorities say DiNapoli was reported missing on June 30 after telling family she would return home from a friend’s house. Her body was discovered by drone near the Anderson River on July 2.

Mendoza, who had been uncooperative with the investigation and disappeared shortly after speaking once with detectives, was identified early on as a person of interest in the case. Police say he is now facing murder charges.

He was transported to Imperial County Jail and is currently being held on charges related to DiNapoli’s death.