By Jorge Casuso

April 23, 2026 -- A top Downtown official was found dead Tuesday along with his wife at a home in Venice in what police are investigating as a possible murder suicide, according to LAPD.

Jeremy Ferguson, the Director of Operations for Downtown Santa Monica, Inc (DTSM), and his wife, Mandy Zelinka, were found by police responding to a shooting incident in the 600 block of Superba Avenue at 10:50 a.m., according to a police department spokesman.

Both had suffered fatal gunshot wounds, law enforcement source familiar with the incident told the Los Angeles Times.

NBC4 reported that Ferguson "emailed a friend a suicide note and instructions on how to get into the house," according to sources familiar with the investigation.

"It’s believed Ferguson shot his wife and then turned the gun on himself," the station reported.

A possible motive has not been disclosed.

DTSM CEO Debbie Lee said in a statement, “Our hearts are broken as we process the news of the passing of Jeremy Ferguson. Jeremy was a cherished member of our team and a true champion for Downtown Santa Monica.

"His passion for placemaking and the dedication he brought to his work each day made a lasting impact. He will be deeply missed.”

According to a guest biography posted on the website for BBS Radio TV, Ferguson was "deeply involved in professional and community activities centered around placemaking, including general, creative, and tactical placemaking projects."

Ferguson, who used his LinkedIn page to tirelessly promote Santa Monica, served on the Board of Directors for the Santa Monica History Museum and worked with children’s programs at the YMCA, PAL and the Boys and Girls Clubs.

"As an Ambassador for the Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce, he actively participates in various initiatives to promote community engagement and development," according to the biography entry.