Search for Suspect Intensifies After California Teen Marissa DiNapoli Found Dead Under Bridge

An intense manhunt is underway in California after the tragic discovery of 18-year-old Marissa DiNapoli’s body near Anderson Lake County Park. The teen had been reported missing on June 29, and her remains were confirmed by authorities on July 3, days after they were found in a severely decomposed state.

Last Contact and Growing Concerns

Marissa last contacted her family on the night of June 28 via text message. In it, she told them she’d be staying with a friend and would return the following day. When she failed to come home or answer calls, her family grew increasingly alarmed and reported her missing.

The Morgan Hill Police Department (MHPD) began investigating and soon determined the last person seen with Marissa was her 21-year-old boyfriend, Martin Mendoza, who is now considered a person of interest in the case.

Surveillance Footage Raises Red Flags

Surveillance video captured Marissa and Mendoza leaving a residence on June 29 — the same location where her vehicle was later found abandoned.

“We see her come out of the house and we see her leave with Martin,”

said **Marissa’s sister, Monice Ramirez**, in an interview with **ABC 7**.

“They were leaving the house together and Martin comes back with the car without Marissa.”

Audio from the footage, according to The Morgan Hill Times, revealed Mendoza asking Marissa, “Why would you text your ex?” just before they left.

A Grim Discovery Near a Familiar Location

Authorities, joined by local and federal search teams, discovered a decaying body under a bridge near Anderson Lake County Park on July 2 — an area reportedly frequented by the couple. Because of the body’s condition, police could not initially confirm the identity.

“Due to the condition of the body, we were unable to make an identification,”

said an MHPD spokesperson, who noted the remains appeared to have been exposed to the elements for some time.

The next day, the Santa Clara County Coroner’s Office confirmed the worst: the body was indeed that of Marissa DiNapoli.

Devastation and Pleas for Justice

“We are devastated to inform you that Marissa’s body was found last night, July 2, 2025… This is not the outcome any of us wanted and we are heartbroken,”

MHPD posted on **Facebook**, offering their condolences to her family and pledging ongoing support.

Marissa’s loved ones also released a statement, asking for privacy and thanking the public for their support.

“We appreciate the love and support from those who have reached out… Please continue to support us through your prayers and cherished memories.”

On social media, her stepmother shared a raw and emotional post, expressing both grief and anger:

“She was only 18 and had her entire amazing life ahead of her… My only hope now is that Marissa receives the justice she deserves. I am already circulating your face all over Mexico, Martin Mendoza… We WILL find your pathetic a**.”

Fear and Red Flags: “He’s Obsessed With Her”

According to Jaslyn Gutierrez, Marissa had expressed fear that Mendoza might hurt her:

“She told me in the car that he would kill her, that he was obsessed, that he wouldn’t stop,”

Gutierrez told **NBC Bay Area**.

Mendoza Refuses to Cooperate

Authorities have been trying to contact Mendoza but say he has ignored all outreach.

“We have tried reaching out by cell phone, through his family… He has yet to do so,”

said **MHPD Capt. Mario Rodriguez**, adding that they’re still actively searching for him.

“If Martin Mendoza is reading this, please contact us… It is important we bring closure to Marissa’s family.”

He may be driving a white Toyota Camry with plates CW87W00 or 9PTM351. Anyone with information is urged to leave an anonymous tip through the City of Morgan Hill website.