A nonprofit executive involved in enhancing downtown Santa Monica’s business landscape was discovered dead alongside his wife, with authorities viewing it as a potential murder-suicide, according to law enforcement.
Jeremy Ferguson, who served as the operations manager for Downtown Santa Monica, was found with gunshot wounds on Tuesday morning.
His wife, Mandy Zelinka, was also found deceased at the location with a gunshot wound.
Police received a call about a possible suicide at their home around 11 a.m. and, upon arrival, found both individuals had died from gunshot injuries.
Reports suggest that Ferguson had sent a suicide note to a friend, providing instructions on how to access their property. The friend subsequently came to the home and notified the authorities.
Investigators are treating the case as a murder-suicide, leaning towards the belief that Ferguson shot his wife before taking his own life.
No clear motive has been revealed yet.
Downtown Santa Monica Inc. expressed condolences, stating they were heartbroken over Ferguson’s passing. CEO Debbie Lee described him as a cherished team member who had a significant impact on the downtown area through his dedication to placemaking.
Ferguson had over 25 years of experience in public services and transportation. Early in his career, he served as the mayor of Milwaukee, Oregon, from 2009 until his resignation in early 2015.
During his time at Downtown Santa Monica, he managed several prominent projects, including the redesign of the Ice at Santa Monica rink, which notably increased its capacity and generated substantial revenue. He also took part in launching the city’s first outdoor seasonal roller rink.
His untimely death comes amid growing concerns regarding the condition of downtown Santa Monica. A recent assessment noted that nearly 29% of stores along the Third Street Promenade are vacant.
This area, once a bustling spot for visitors near the beach, has been facing decreased foot traffic, attributed in part to the rising popularity of online shopping and a growing homelessness issue. The region has seen a number of business closures recently, including the longstanding Misfits Bar and Restaurant.
Additionally, the planned closing of The Britannia Pub to make way for a Taco Bell Cantina has drawn criticism from some community members.
Public safety remains a pressing concern in Santa Monica. A police officer was shot during an ambush on the Third Street Promenade last year, prompting heightened alertness in the city.
If you or anyone you know is experiencing a crisis, please reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org for support.
