A fire captain from California has pleaded guilty to the brutal murders of his girlfriend and her 7-year-old son, a crime that unfolded while McFarlin’s colleagues were fighting a nearby wildfire.
Darin McFarlin, 47, admitted to gunning down Marissa N. Divodi-Lessa and her son, Josiah Divodi-Lessa, in August 2025.
The Crime
McFarlin, a fire captain with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire), was charged with:
- Two counts of first-degree murder
- Attempted murder
- Child abuse
Prosecutors say McFarlin shot and killed Divodi-Lessa as she tried to use her phone, and also murdered her son, Josiah, who was just 7 years old. Authorities alleged that McFarlin targeted them “to prevent testimony,” though the exact nature of the crime they may have witnessed has not been released.
The Tragic Details
The incident took place at their home in Cameron Park, California, around 9 p.m. on August 2025:
- Divodi-Lessa was found dead at the scene after suffering gunshot wounds
- Josiah was rushed to the hospital, but he also died from his injuries
- A third child was present at the scene but was not harmed in the attack
McFarlin reportedly shot Divodi-Lessa in the dining room while she was using her cellphone, then turned the gun on Josiah. The shooting came after a confrontation that led McFarlin to believe the pair might have witnessed a previous crime, leading to the “prevent testimony” motive.
McFarlin’s Role in California’s Wildfire Fight
At the time of the murders, McFarlin was part of a 1,000+ firefighter team from CalFire, which was battling a nearby wildfire. Despite his role as a first responder, McFarlin’s personal life had taken a dark turn that ended in this tragic violence. He was arrested hours after the incident and charged with homicide.
McFarlin’s Confession and Plea
In court, McFarlin pleaded guilty to:
- Two counts of first-degree murder
- Attempted murder
- Child abuse
Prosecutors also pointed to special allegations of multiple murders, murder to prevent testimony, and the intentional discharge of a firearm causing great bodily injury. McFarlin admitted that after shooting his victims, he disposed of the evidence and tried to cover up his actions.
The Impact on the Victim’s Family
The tragic loss has left family members devastated. A GoFundMe page set up for Divodi-Lessa’s family describes her as a loving mother, and her surviving daughter fondly remembers the sweet moments they shared, such as playing games with Josiah.
The loss of Marissa and Josiah has left an irreplaceable hole in their family, and the heartbreaking story highlights the lasting impact of such violent acts on loved ones.
Legal Consequences and Next Steps
McFarlin, who was held without bond, is expected to face sentencing for the murders. The case has garnered national attention, especially considering McFarlin’s position as a fire captain during one of the deadliest wildfire seasons in California’s history.
His actions, described as horrific, serve as a stark reminder that domestic violence can happen even in families that appear normal on the surface.
