California Fire Chief Charged with Murder
A California fire chief has been charged with the murder of his girlfriend and her young son, allegedly to stop them from testifying about another crime he is believed to have committed.
Colonel Darrin McFarlin, from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, is accused of killing 29-year-old Marissa Diwaziraressa and her son Josiah at around 9 p.m. on August 21 in a home located near Cameron Park.
Upon arrival at the scene, the Eldorado County Sheriff discovered Marissa and her child with gunshot wounds. Another child was found unharmed inside the house, according to police reports.
Marissa was pronounced dead at the scene. Josiah, a second grader, was rushed to a nearby hospital but was later declared dead there.
Investigators quickly identified McFarlin as the prime suspect and arrested him shortly after midnight the next day.
The 47-year-old was booked at the El Dorado County Jail on charges that include one count of murder, as well as child abuse and domestic violence.
Authorities mentioned that McFarlin and Marissa were in a “domestic relationship.” It has been reported that the two were likely witnesses to crimes committed by McFarlin that may have prompted the alleged killings.
The complaint does not reveal the nature of the crimes they were said to have witnessed, but prosecutors claim McFarlin deliberately took their lives to prevent them from providing any testimony.
Moreover, McFarlin is also accused of inflicting injuries on Marissa and allegedly shot her in the dining room after she attempted to make a phone call.
Reports suggest that McFarlin might have even been trying to harm another child. The prosecution told the Eldorado County Prosecutor’s office for comments regarding the case.
McFarlin appeared in court on Monday where he pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Cal Fire director Joe Tyler stated that McFarlin was off-duty at the time of his arrest and has since been placed on unpaid administrative leave. He expressed his deepest sympathies to the victims’ families during this tragic time.
Friends and family described Marissa as a vibrant person, noting her love for life. She’s survived by her daughter, Seraphina, and a son, Josiah, who was known as “JoJo.” He faced health challenges but was cared for deeply by Marissa.
If found guilty, McFarlin could potentially face the death penalty or life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. His next court date is set for September 29.
