An urgent search gripped Morgan Hill when 18‑year‑old Marissa DiNapoli failed to return home on June 28, after texting that she’d be staying with a friend. Days passed with no response, and fear set in as concerned family members and authorities mobilized.
On July 2, hikers discovered a body beneath a bridge near Anderson Lake County Park. The Santa Clara County Coroner’s Office confirmed on July 3 that the remains belonged to Marissa The discovery sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community.
Authorities have named 21‑year‑old Martin Mendoza, Marissa’s boyfriend, as a person of interest. Surveillance footage shows the couple leaving a Trail Drive residence on June 29, after which Marissa’s car was found abandoned. Mendoza was captured driving away alone in her vehicle
A fragment of that footage reportedly included a tense confrontation. Friends later revealed Marissa had voiced fears about Mendoza’s jealousy and threatening behavior One best friend shared:
“Marissa has told me… that he would kill her… that he’s obsessive… and willing to go to that extent”
In the weeks following her disappearance, search teams—including her own family—scoured the area. A drone operator spotted the body, prompting authorities to investigate Brandon’s body under the bridge.
The Morgan Hill Police, with help from the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office, FBI, and Homeland Security, continue actively investigating. No arrest warrants or official charges have been issued yet Authorities urge anyone with information—especially regarding Mendoza, believed to be driving a white Toyota Camry—to contact Detective Kyle Tolentino immediately
