A California fire captain has been accused of murdering his girlfriend and her child, allegedly to prevent them from testifying about another crime. Darin McFarlin, a California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) captain, is facing two counts of first-degree murder in the slayings of 29-year-old Marissa Divodi-Lessa and her son, Josiah, a second-grader. The tragic events took place in Cameron Park, about 30 miles east of Sacramento, in the Sierra Nevada foothills.
What Happened
On the night of August 21, 2025, law enforcement responded to reports of a shooting at a home in Cameron Park. Upon arrival around 9 p.m., authorities found Divodi-Lessa already deceased, having suffered a fatal gunshot wound. Josiah was critically injured and rushed to the hospital, but he was later pronounced dead. A second child was also found at the residence, but fortunately, was unharmed.
Within hours, McFarlin was declared a person of interest and was taken into custody shortly after midnight. The police investigation quickly revealed that McFarlin had allegedly murdered both victims to prevent their testimony regarding an unspecified crime. The details of this other case remain unclear.
Who Is Darin McFarlin?
Darin McFarlin, a fire captain with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), was arrested in connection with the deaths of his girlfriend, Marissa Divodi-Lessa, and her young son, Josiah. McFarlin, 42, has worked as a firefighter for over 20 years. He now faces charges including two counts of first-degree murder, attempted murder, domestic violence, and child abuse. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Background or Timeline
The murders occurred on August 21, when police arrived to find the horrific aftermath of the double shooting. Within hours, McFarlin was taken into custody, and the investigation began to uncover the motive behind the killings. Authorities claim that McFarlin murdered the pair to block their potential testimony related to another case, though the specifics of this case have not yet been made public.
In addition to the two murder charges, McFarlin is also charged with the attempted murder of the second child found at the scene. The Los Angeles Times reported that McFarlin is facing multiple other charges related to domestic violence and child abuse.
Public or Social Media Reaction
The shocking nature of the crime has prompted widespread media coverage and a significant public response. Local communities and online platforms have expressed disbelief over the tragedy. Many are horrified by the details of the double murder, with many offering support for the surviving child and the families affected.
Official Statement or What Happens Next
McFarlin is currently in custody and has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Authorities continue to investigate the case, and the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Department has emphasized the severity of the crime. The details surrounding the other case, which authorities believe motivated the murders, remain under investigation.
The next steps in the case will include McFarlin’s trial, where more information is expected to be revealed.
Closing
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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