John Maxey Yeager: California man arrested for murdering wife, hiding her remains in Santa Cruz Mountains
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA: In a chilling turn of events, the investigation into the disappearance of 40-year-old California woman, YingYing 'Dawn' Yu, has taken a sinister turn, leading to the arrest of her husband, John Maxey Yeager, 56.
Possible human remains, believed to be Yu's, were found in the Santa Cruz Mountains, painting a grim picture of murder and domestic violence, and casting a shadow over the once seemingly ordinary lives of the couple.
Grim discovery in the Santa Cruz Mountains
Charged with one count of murder and felony false imprisonment, Yeager's arrest came after an alarming discovery by the Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Department, as per The Mercury News.
The investigation unveiled that human remains, likely belonging to Yu, were located in the Santa Cruz Mountains—a revelation that unfolded following the husband's earlier visit to the area this year, pending official confirmation by the Santa Clara County Medical Examiner.
Timeline of YingYing 'Dawn' Yu's disappearance
Yu's mysterious disappearance came to light on January 8 when she failed to contact her employer before New Year's Day and could not be reached, prompting authorities concerned to launch an investigation.
Alarming inconsistencies in information provided by Yeager raised suspicions, leading to deeper scrutiny of the couple's troubled relationship.
The police department uncovered evidence of a domestic violence dispute between Yu and Yeager on the evening of December 31. The 56-year-old was initially arrested and booked for charges related to the domestic violence incident on January 11.
However, the investigation took a more disturbing turn as additional evidence suggested "foul play related to Yu's welfare".
As the collaborative efforts of the investigative team progressed, they discovered Yeager's link to the area where the possible human remains were found. The revelation marks a critical development in the case, shedding light on the disturbing circumstances surrounding Yu's disappearance.
"We appreciate the assistance, trust and confidence placed in us by Dawn Yu's community, colleagues and family throughout the investigation and express our deepest condolences to all who knew Dawn Yu," the Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Department expressed in a somber update.
Further, the court proceedings have taken a stern stance, with Yeager being arraigned on Tuesday, January 16.
A "no-contact protective order for four minors," presumably the couple's children, was issued by the court. Another protective order was extended to an unnamed individual.
