Morgan Hill Community Mourns as Missing 18-Year-Old Marissa DiNapoli Found Dead

In California, the Morgan Hill community is devastated after authorities confirmed that 18-year-old Marissa DiNapoli, who disappeared over the weekend, was found dead near Anderson Lake on Wednesday night.

The Morgan Hill Police Department confirmed her identity on Thursday, bringing an end to the days-long search that left her family, friends, and the community heartbroken.

Marissa was last seen on Sunday morning, June 29, 2025, at 9:45 AM with her boyfriend, Martin Mendoza.

Witnesses say the couple was seen leaving a home just three miles from where Marissa’s body was later found.

According to the Daily Mail, police have since named Martin Mendoza as a person of interest in her disappearance. 

Marissa DiNapoli

Marissa DiNapoli

Marissa DiNapoli

Marissa had just graduated from Opportunity Youth Academy just three weeks earlier. 

Her teacher, Tara Guerrero, described her as a bright and kind soul who left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.

"Every student in my class touches my heart, but her especially," Guerrero shared. "She had the brightest smile that would light up every room. She’s just one of those kids that leaves a mark on your heart."

According to friends and family, Marissa had expressed fear of Mendoza, saying he was "obsessed" with her and had made violent threats. 

Jaslyn Gutierrez, a close friend, shared that Marissa once confided in her, saying that Mendoza “would kill her” and that “he wouldn’t stop.”

Before her body was discovered, authorities believed Marissa may have voluntarily disappeared since she was last seen with her boyfriend. 

So they issued a public plea, urging her to come forward, as per Daily Mail. 

'Marissa, if you are reading this press release, please contact the Morgan Hill Police Department,' the release said.

However, Marissa’s family suspected foul play from the very beginning, so they organized their own search with the help of friends, relatives, her teachers, and other volunteers. 

Tragically, it was her own family members who found her remains after days of searching near Anderson Reservoir—an area they said the couple often visited.

Martin Mendoza 

The moment Marissa’s remains were found

Martin Mendoza 

Police say Mendoza has been uncooperative throughout the search and investigation.

A family friend, Serina Soque, also claimed that Mendoza even lied about his identity when contacted during the search.

"He tried to say he wasn’t Martin and then claimed he hadn’t spoken to her in two weeks," she said.  

Since the tragic discovery, authorities have been actively searching for Mendoza, as per Daily Mail. 

They believe he may be driving a white Toyota Camry with license plates CW87W00 or 9PTM351.

On Thursday night, a candlelight vigil was held in Morgan Hill to honor Marissa’s memory, as loved ones came together to mourn the loss of a young woman whose future was taken far too soon.

As the investigation continues, the Morgan Hill Police Department has vowed to support Marissa’s family, stating, "Our arms are around you. Our whole department is here to support you during this unimaginable time."

If you have any information regarding Martin Mendoza’s whereabouts, contact the Morgan Hill Police Department immediately.