True Crime with Kendall Rae: Episode Summary Episode Title: Video Camera Captures Possible Motive in Murder of Marissa DiNapoli
Release Date: August 14, 2025

Introduction

In this poignant episode of True Crime with Kendall Rae, Kendall delves into the heartbreaking and recent case of Marissa DiNapoli, an 18-year-old whose life was tragically cut short. The episode aims to shed light on the circumstances surrounding Marissa's murder, the subsequent investigation, community response, and broader conversations about domestic violence.

Background on Marissa DiNapoli

Marissa DiNapoli was born on May 14, 2007, and was the youngest of eight siblings. She was adopted by the DiNapoli family after spending time in foster care due to familial challenges. Marissa grew up in Morgan Hill, a community Kendall has previously discussed, notably in the case of Sierra Lamar in 2012.

Teacher's Tribute:

"Every student in my class touches my heart, but her especially, 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."
— Teacher, [02:15]

Marissa was a recent graduate of Opportunity Youth Academy (June 5, 2025) and was set to attend Gavilan College. She was employed at a local Starbucks, showcasing her reliability and ambition.

The Disappearance

On Saturday, June 28, 2025, at 9:16 PM, Marissa informed her parents via text that she was staying at a friend's house for the evening and would return by 8 PM the next day. Contrary to her dependable nature, Marissa did not return home and missed her shift at Starbucks on Sunday, June 29. This uncharacteristic behavior prompted her family to report her missing to the Morgan Hill Police Department the following day.

Investigation and Martin Mendoza's Involvement

Identification of a Person of Interest: Shortly after Marissa was reported missing, her on-again, off-again boyfriend, Martin Mendoza, aged 20, was identified as a person of interest. Evidence included:

• Cell Phone Records: Indicating last contact with Marissa.
• Video Footage (Timestamp [07:45]): Capturing Marissa and Martin leaving his house around 9:45 AM on June 29th. The audio suggested a heated argument, hinting at possible motives related to their tumultuous relationship.

Quote on Domestic Violence:

"Marissa had been trying to get out of the relationship for a really long time. But he was just incredibly possessive of her, which led to her feeling unsafe around him."
— Marissa’s Sister, Moniece [09:30]

Marking a concerning history, Martin had another domestic violence restraining order filed against him in 2022, pointing to a pattern of abusive behavior.

Law Enforcement's Initial Response: On June 30, police responded to a disturbance at Martin's residence due to Marissa's missing status. Despite family members expressing fears for Marissa's safety, Martin evaded immediate arrest, later fleeing to Mexico on July 1. He was apprehended attempting to re-enter the U.S. on July 7.

Community Response

The discovery of Marissa’s body near Anderson Lake on July 2 galvanized the Morgan Hill community. Vigils, memorials, and support events were organized to honor her memory and support her grieving family.

Family's Gratitude:

"We have already reached out to you via email, but we do want to offer you a HOPE Grant if you're interested."
— Kendall Rae [04:45]

Marissa's family, deeply impacted by both the loss and the investigative shortcomings, initiated a petition demanding an independent investigation into the Morgan Hill Police Department's handling of the case, citing racial and systemic biases.

Quote on Community Support:

"Your kindness and determination touched us so deeply. We are so grateful for your love."
— Marissa’s Sibling [27:52]

Criticism of Police Handling

Marissa's family and the community expressed significant disappointment with the Morgan Hill Police Department's initial investigation. Key points of contention include:

• Delayed Action: Despite Martin being the last person seen with Marissa and possessing a history of abuse, police did not arrest or detain him promptly.
• Systemic Bias: The family alleges that racial and systemic biases contributed to the delayed response, leading to precious lost time.
• Public Petition: Over 4,000 signatures have been gathered, calling for an independent audit and investigation into the police department's procedures.

Family Statement Highlights:

"In the most critical early hours of Marissa's disappearance, the Morgan Hill Police Department failed to respond with the urgency the situation demanded."
— Marissa’s Family Facebook Post [35:10]

Legal Proceedings

Martin Mendoza was charged with first-degree murder and the use of a deadly weapon (a knife). During his court appearances:

• He failed to enter a plea.
• Martin did not attend a crucial hearing on August 8, disappointing Marissa's family who sought justice swiftly.

Courtroom Update:

"We have charged him with first-degree murder and the use of a knife to commit the murder."
— Morgan Hill Police Department [34:00]

Efforts to Prevent Domestic Violence

Marissa’s tragic story underscores the pervasive issue of domestic violence. Kendall emphasizes the importance of awareness, education, and accessible resources to combat intimate partner violence.

Statistics Shared:

"Intimate partner violence alone affects more than 12 million people every year. Over 35% of women and 28% of men in the US have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime."
— Kendall Rae [37:30]

Resources Mentioned:

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: A critical resource for victims seeking help.
• Community Events: Grief counseling, healing circles, and domestic violence awareness nights were organized to support survivors and educate the public.

Conclusion

The episode culminates in a reaffirmation of the need for community support, systemic accountability, and continuous dialogue on domestic violence prevention. Kendall Rae expresses her solidarity with Marissa’s family and highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure such tragedies do not recur.

Final Thoughts:

"I just thought that was so powerful coming from a teacher. For her to feel that she is one of her own children. It really does tell you a lot about the type of person Marissa was."
— Kendall Rae [05:10]

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Kendall Rae on Therapy:

  "I have been in therapy on and off throughout my entire life... And telehealth overall has just made mental health care more convenient and accessible for millions of people."
  — [03:30]

• Police Statement on Martin Mendoza’s Arrest:

  "We have 30 active investigators working on this. We are continuous. We are still trying to get a hold of Mr. Mendoza."
  — Morgan Hill Police Department [23:32]

• Family’s Message to Martin Mendoza:

  "For Martin specifically, you know, if you're out there, I am a man of the Lord... I pray that you turn yourself in so you can just."
  — Marissa’s Brother, Julian [27:52]

• Kendall Rae on Systemic Bias:

  "We believe racial and systemic bias contributed to their inaction, costing us precious time."
  — Marissa’s Family Facebook Post [35:10]

Supporting Marissa’s Family and Raising Awareness

Kendall Rae encourages listeners to support Marissa's family by signing the petition for an independent investigation and sharing their stories to raise awareness about domestic violence.

Call to Action:

"Please take a moment to sign that for them. You guys always really come through for the families that we talk about here on this show."
— Kendall Rae [42:26]

Resources Provided:

• Higher Hope Foundation: Offers HOPE and Empower Grants to support victims and advocacy nonprofits.
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: Available for immediate assistance.

Closing Remarks

Kendall thanks the audience for their support and urges continued vigilance and compassion towards victims of violent crimes. She emphasizes the importance of community action in fostering a safer environment for all.

"Stay safe out there."
— Kendall Rae [48:12]

Additional Information:
For more details, resources, and to support Marissa’s family, listeners can visit the links provided in the podcast's description box and show notes.