Body Found Near Anderson Lake Park as Teen Vanishes

Authorities have recovered a body near Anderson Lake County Park in Morgan Hill, California, amidst an ongoing investigation into the disappearance of an 18-year-old woman, Marissa DiNapoli. The remains are currently being examined to determine identity, as the condition hampers immediate identification.

DiNapoli was last seen on Sunday morning leaving a residence with her ex-boyfriend, Martin Mendoza, who has been identified as a person of interest. Friends recall her expressing fears that Mendoza, who is now wanted by police, threatened her life and exhibited obsessive behavior.

According to reports, DiNapoli’s last communication was a text message on June 18, indicating she intended to stay overnight with a friend, but she never returned home. Surveillance footage shows her leaving a nearby residence with Mendoza around 9:45 a.m. Sunday. Her vehicle was later found at that location.

Mendoza has been uncooperative and is actively sought by law enforcement, who believe he is driving a white Toyota Camry. Authorities have appealed to the public for assistance in locating him.

Detecting a possible link, a drone operator near Anderson Lake Park identified what appeared to be a body, prompting a police response. The Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the discovery, which adds a layer of urgency to the investigation.

Friends close to DiNapoli, including Jaslyn Gutierrez, have shared her fears about Mendoza’s threats, with one friend recalling her saying Mendoza might go to extreme lengths. Her family attempted to contact Mendoza after her disappearance, initially facing denial of involvement.

The investigation continues as authorities analyze the remains, which will be sent to the medical examiner’s office for further identification. The long holiday weekend may delay definitive results.