San Rafael, CA – A little more than 24 hours after the tragic discovery of a 28-year-old woman found deceased, San Rafael Police have taken a suspect into custody for homicide.

On March 15th, shortly after 6:00 PM, officers took Leslieli Violani Ilolahia, a 31-year-old female, into custody just a few blocks from the original crime scene.  This incident was centered on an encampment blocks away and not associated with the City’s Sanctioned Camping Area on Mahone Path.

During an interview with investigators, Ilolahia admitted to stabbing the victim, but the motive for the attack remains under investigation. Investigators also obtained and served a search warrant for Ilolahia’s living area, located within the same encampment area on Andersen Drive. Detectives believe evidence was located that further connects her to the crime.

The investigation began on March 14th at approximately 6:15 PM, when officers responded to Andersen Drive after receiving a report of a woman who had been stabbed. Upon arrival, officers located the 28-year-old victim suffering from apparent stab wounds. Despite the response of emergency personnel, she was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Our deepest condolences go out to the victim’s family, friends, and loved ones during this extremely difficult time.

Ilolahia was booked into the Marin County Jail for violation of 187 PC – Homicide.

The San Rafael Police Department continues to investigate this case and is asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who may have information related to the investigation to contact the San Rafael Police Department at (415) 485-3000. Tips can also be made online at http://www.srpd.org/tips.