Santa Monica Executive Sent Haunting Note to Friend Before Murder-Suicide, Police Say
Ex Milwaukie mayor and wife found dead inside their apartment.
The murder-suicide incident in Santa Monica has sent shockwaves across the community. However, police have now reported that the executive had sent a concerning note to a friend shortly before the deadly shooting at his home in Venice. The message included instructions for entering the property. After visiting the house, the friend called authorities to report the grim discovery.
Officers found Jeremy Ferguson and his wife, Mandy Zelinka, dead on April 21 in the morning, with gunshot wounds. Investigators believe Ferguson shot Zelinka before shooting himself. However, the motive behind the alleged murder-suicide has not been released.
Friends in Shock as Police Probe Santa Monica Murder-Suicide After Executive’s Note
Jeremy Ferguson and his wife Mandy Zelinka were found dead inside their apartment on April 21.
The couple, who were known for their civic work, are now being remembered by friends and family.
“I’m in total shock. It just doesn’t line up for me. He was just full of future projects,” said Jowanda Dziesinki. She also said that he was a “positive” person and always helpful. She said she did not see the tragedy unfolding.
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According to the New York Post, Dziesinski said the loss goes beyond personal grief. “To lose him is we just lost the best person that was going to help bring Santa Monica back to its former state,” she further added.
Ferguson served as Director of Operations for Downtown Santa Monica. In a statement, CEO Debbie Lee said the team is mourning deeply. “Our hearts are broken as we process the news of the passing of Jeremy Ferguson.”
She added, “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.”
Ferguson had more than 25 years of experience in public service and transportation. Earlier in his career, he served as mayor of Milwaukie, Oregon, from 2009 to 2015.
Former Mayor had sent a message to a friend before the tragedy struck.
In Santa Monica, he had led several major projects, These included a redesign of the seasonal Ice Rink, which also boosted the capacity and brought in strong revenue during a recent season. He also helped launch the city’s first outdoor roller rink in 2024. Beyond his official role, he served on the board of the Santa Monica History Museum.
Friends said the couple had moved to the area almost three years ago and immediately became part of efforts to support art, culture, and local business.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances that led to the deaths. Officials have not shared further details about the note.
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