Man accused of Marissa DiNapoli’s death makes first court appearance
MORGAN HILL, Calif. (KION-TV) - The man accused of murdering a missing 18-year-old from Morgan Hill last week made his first appearance in court.
Court documents from the Santa Clara District Attorney's Office are also shedding new light on the case.
According to the criminal complaint, 20-year-old Martin Mendoza is accused of stabbing his girlfriend, Marissa DiNapoli.
Her body was discovered near the Anderson River on July 2nd, just days after she was reported missing. DiNapoli was found with five stab wounds to the back.
Court documents say the two were seen leaving a home together on June 29th, with the video allegedly showing Mendoza confronting her about contacting an ex-boyfriend.
DiNapoli had missed her shift at her job, sending concern to her co-workers and family members.
When Morgan Hill Police officers first contacted Mendoza, he retreated into a residence to avoid any contact with them.
Martin was later found at the San Ysidro border crossing on July 1, attempting to cross into Mexico before being arrested.
Mendoza did not enter a plea and will have his next court date on September 9.
Person of interest arrested in connection with the death of Marissa DiNapoli
MORGAN HILL, Calif. (KION-TV) - Morgan Hill Police have arrested Martin Mendoza in connection with the death of 18-year-old Marris DiNopli.
According to Morgan Hill Police, 18-year-old Mendoza was considered a person of interest as detective began their investigation into the disappearance of DiNapoli.
Mendoza was arrested at the California-Mexico Border Crossing while trying to come back into the United States from Mexico. Mendoza is being charged with murder.
"While Mendoza’s arrest may bring a measure of relief, it does not ease the heartbreak we all continue to feel. Marissa was a radiant, compassionate young woman with a future full of promise. Her loss is profound, and our grief is shared," stated Morgan Hill Police on Facebook.
In the wake of DiNapoli's death, three community healing events are being held in her memory.
