Jeremy Ferguson and Mandy Zelinka Santa Monica, CA Suicide Death: Community Mourn,

A senior official with Downtown Santa Monica Inc. and his wife were found dead at their home in Venice, Los Angeles on Tuesday in what authorities are investigating as a suspected murder-suicide, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

Police responded to a residence in the 600 block of Superba Avenue at approximately 10:50 a.m. local time after receiving reports related to a shooting incident. When officers arrived at the property, they discovered the bodies of Jeremy Ferguson, Director of Operations for Downtown Santa Monica Inc., and his wife, Mandy Zelinka. Both were pronounced dead at the scene after suffering fatal gunshot wounds. the case is currently being treated as a possible murder-suicide, though officials have not yet confirmed the exact sequence of events or publicly identified a motive. Law enforcement sources indicated that Ferguson had sent a suicide note to a friend before the incident, including instructions on how to access the home, which ultimately led authorities to the scene. Ferguson was a well-known figure in the Santa Monica area, where he worked to support economic development and community initiatives in the city’s downtown district. Through his role with Downtown Santa Monica Inc., he helped oversee projects intended to revitalize the area’s business corridor and improve the visitor experience along the city’s prominent retail and entertainment spaces.

Mandy Zelinka, who was also remembered by those who knew her as a creative and community-minded individual, had been involved in artistic work including photography. Friends and colleagues have begun sharing messages of shock and grief following the news of the couple’s deaths.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Additional details are expected to be released as the investigation progresses and officials complete their review of the evidence.

If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress, help is available through the U.S. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, which provides confidential support 24 hours a day.