04/16/2026
On April 13, 2026, in a packed courtroom filled with those supporting the victims, Darin McFarlin was sentenced to two consecutive terms of life without the possibility of parole, as well as an additional life term, 50 years to life, and 15 years, for the August 21, 2025 brutal murders of his fiancรฉ, Marissa Divodi-Lessa Herzog, and her 7-year-old son.
Seven powerful and emotional victim impact statements were read, including a letter from the 9-year-old surviving child, offering a small glimpse into her new reality. A beautiful slideshow tribute was played, reminding everyone of the precious lives that were stolen.
McFarlin was a peace officer with Cal Fire and was highly focused on his image. On August 21, 2025, he was engaged to and living with Divodi-Lessa and her two young children. The family sat down together to watch a movie about a distinguished, well-respected firefighter who was struggling in his personal life. McFarlin became angry at the portrayal and stormed off to his room.
When Divodi-Lessa followed him, an argument took place. McFarlin then strangled her. She fled the bedroom, stating she was going to call the police to report the domestic violence. Knowing his career would be over if the incident were reported, McFarlin retrieved a loaded firearm and followed her into the dining area, where he found her on the phone with a family member. He struck her over the head with the firearm, checked the phone, and then shot her in the head, while her 7-year-old son and 9-year-old daughter were in the room.
He then turned the gun on the young boy and fired, killing him. The young girl begged for her life as McFarlin pointed the gun at her. She was able to run around a kitchen wall, preventing him from getting a clear view. He eventually told her to exit through a dog door. McFarlin then placed his phone on airplane mode and fled the scene, but was later apprehended in Nevada.
Chief Assistant District Attorney Lisette Suder spoke at the hearing, making clear that McFarlin was not a hero. She emphasized that the true heroes are the brave men and women who responded, worked to solve the case, and sought justice for the victims.
District Attorney Vern Pierson stated, โThis was a horrific and senseless act of violence that stole two innocent lives and forever changed a family. Todayโs sentence ensures that the defendant will never again have the opportunity to harm another person. Our hearts remain with the surviving child and all those who loved Marissa and her son.โ
The District Attorneyโs Office commends the members of the El Dorado County Sheriffโs Office for their swift response and thorough investigation in this case.
