Glendale firefighter read wife’s diary moments before she was killed, family attorney says

A longtime Glendale firefighter was arrested Wednesday in the death of his wife, who was found with fatal blunt-force trauma injuries in their North Hollywood home.

Investigators called it an apparent domestic violence homicide.

Andrew Jimenez, 45, was booked on suspicion of murder late Wednesday in the death of his wife, Mayra, 46. The Glendale Fire Department identified Jimenez as a firefighter and paramedic who had been with the department since 2008.

An attorney retained by Andrew Jimenez’s family told KABC in a statement that he discovered his wife was having an affair.

“Our office is currently in contact with law enforcement regarding a diary of the decedent, apparently read moments before the homicide, that verified infidelity by the decedent,” the statement said.

Officers first responded to the couple’s home in the 5600 block of Satsuma Avenue around 4:30 a.m. Wednesday, after Jimenez had requested a welfare check on his wife, leading officers to her bludgeoned body, according to a news release from the Los Angeles Police Department. An ensuing investigation soon linked Jimenez to his wife’s death, officials said.

He is being held on $2-million bail, according to jail records.

Glendale officials said Jimenez had been placed on administrative leave and the city was “fully cooperating” with the homicide investigation.

“Our condolences are with the victim’s family and loved ones,” Glendale Fire Chief Jeff Brooks wrote in a statement released late Wednesday. “We are prepared to support those impacted by this tragedy, and we are also ensuring our firefighters and staff have access to support resources as they process this loss.”

Mayra Jimenez was an educator and a member of United Teachers Los Angeles.

“Mayra Jimenez was a beloved teacher. We are heartbroken and devastated in this moment,” the union said in a media statement. “Mayra’s love for her students was paramount. Mayra always led by example and fought for the betterment of the entire LAUSD community. Our thoughts are with Mayra’s family, loved ones, friends, students, and school.”

She was also an ordained minister in Southern California, according to her website.

“I consider it an honor to officiate your wedding,” she wrote. “Every ceremony is customized and designed to capture your personality and love story. You can incorporate elements from your traditions and beliefs or keep your wedding purely non-religious. I am here to make your day memorable and touching for everyone involved.”