Mandy Zelinka Santa Monica CA Obituary, Death: A senior Downtown Santa Monica official and his wife were found dead at their home in Venice on Tuesday in what police are investigating as a suspected murder-suicide, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
Officers were called to a property in the 600 block of Superba Avenue at around 10:50 local time following reports of a shooting incident, a police spokesperson said. On arrival, they discovered the bodies of Jeremy Ferguson, the Director of Operations for Downtown Santa Monica Inc (DTSM), and his wife, Mandy Zelinka.
Law enforcement sources told the Los Angeles Times that both individuals had sustained fatal gunshot wounds. The circumstances surrounding their deaths remain under investigation, and authorities have not publicly confirmed a motive.
US media, including NBC4, reported that Ferguson had allegedly sent an email to a friend containing what appeared to be a suicide note, along with instructions on how to access the home. Citing sources familiar with the investigation, the station also reported that officers believe Ferguson may have shot his wife before turning the weapon on himself. Police have not officially confirmed these details.
Downtown Santa Monica Inc described Ferguson as a valued member of its leadership team. In a statement, chief executive Debbie Lee said the organisation was “heartbroken” by his death, adding that he was a committed advocate for the development and wellbeing of the city’s downtown area.
Ferguson was widely involved in civic and community initiatives, including placemaking projects and local development programmes. He also served on the board of the Santa Monica History Museum and contributed to youth-focused organisations such as the YMCA, Police Activities League, and Boys and Girls Clubs.
Authorities say investigations into the incident are continuing.