John Maxey Yeager, a 56-year-old resident of Los Gatos, California, has been charged with the murder of his 40-year-old wife, YingYing “Dawn” Yu.
Investigations into Yu’s murder began when her employer reported her missing on January 8, 2024, after she had not made contact since before New Year’s Day.
Investigators from the Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Department received information that Yeager gave inconsistent statements regarding his wife’s whereabouts. This led to a deeper investigation into Yu’s disappearance and subsequent death.
Police allege that a domestic incident occurred between Yu and Yeager on the night of December 31, 2023, ultimately resulting in Yu’s death.
Following the initial investigation, Yeager was arrested on January 11, 2024, in connection with the domestic violence incident. He has allegedly confessed to the murder.
As the investigation progressed, evidence suggesting foul play in Yu’s disappearance emerged.
This led investigators to the Santa Cruz Mountains along Summit Road, where they discovered possible human remains believed to be those of Yu. These remains are currently awaiting positive identification from the Santa Clara County Medical Examiner.
According to a probable cause affidavit, investigators allege the neighbor’s security footage captured her running out of the house, calling for help. Yeager grabbed her shoulders and Yu reportedly asked her husband if he was going to take her into the house and beat her to death.
Court documents suggest that Yeager strangled Yu to death with a rope. The investigation remains active, with authorities continuing to gather evidence and information.
The Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Department has expressed its gratitude for the community’s assistance and trust throughout the investigation and extends its deepest condolences to all who knew Dawn Yu.
Yeager remains in custody, held without bail at the Santa Clara County Jail, and faces charges of first-degree murder and false imprisonment.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Los Gatos-Monte Police Department.