San Diego County Sheriff’s investigators believe they have identified the suspect in the stabbing death of Cal Fire Captain Rebecca Marodi, 49, but are still in search of the individual. Marodi was found fatally wounded in her home on Rancho Villa Road in Ramona on February 18 at approximately 9 p.m.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene after receiving reports of an assault, but despite attempts to resuscitate her, Marodi was pronounced dead at the location. Authorities have classified her death as an act of domestic violence, indicating that Marodi knew her assailant.
Local resident Victoria Bradley, a friend of the Marodi family, expressed her shock over the incident:
I don’t know who is responsible, but it seems it was personal. I can’t even imagine what she’s going through. It’s just devastating, every parent’s worst nightmare.
Community members are grappling with the news, and they’re shocked such violence could occur in their town. Kim Johnston, nearby resident noted:
It’s a fire captain. You assume they’re safe. A little unsettling, I’d say, and not knowing who and that they haven’t found someone is scary.
Both Bradley and Johnston voiced their confidence in the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department and believe an arrest will be made soon.
Colleagues of Captain Marodi have also spoken out about the tragedy. Cal Fire Battalion Chief Paul Selegue praised her commitment to helping others, stating, “She was never afraid to get involved with a person who needed help and she was always willing to extend herself to assist them.”
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a respected leader and devoted firefighter.
