Husband in Custody as Los Gatos Police Uncover Clues in Santa Cruz Mountains
by Andrew Naylor
Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at 10:00 PM.
LOS GATOS, CA - In a grim discovery that has shaken the quiet city of Los Gatos, John Maxey Yeager, 56, was arrested in connection with the murder of his wife, YingYing “Dawn” Yu, 40, also a Los Gatos resident. The case unfolded when Yu, uncharacteristically, lost contact with her employer after New Year's Day, sparking concerns about her welfare.
Local residents reported a heavy police presence, including the Santa Clara County Search and Rescue, in a densely forested area off Highland Way in Santa Cruz County on January 14th, where human remains believed to be Yu's were found.
The Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Department, aided by a multidisciplinary team, arrested Yeager on January 11, initially on charges related to a domestic violence incident on December 31st. However, further investigation pointed to a more sinister scenario involving Yu's disappearance and suspected foul play.
Yeager's arrest was the culmination of collaborative efforts by local law enforcement and various county departments. The discovery in the Santa Cruz Mountains followed leads developed by a large, multi-agency task force. Despite Yeager's confession, as reported by The Mercury News, and his detention without bail, the case remains under intense investigation.
The Los Gatos community, known for its tranquility, is now grappling with the reality of such a harrowing incident within its midst. As the investigation continues, law enforcement encourages anyone with additional information to reach out to Detective Mike Birley at 408-827-3219 or email police@losgatosca.gov.