Prominent Santa Monica figure shoots wife in possible murder-suicide, sources say

A prominent figure in the nonprofit that works to boost community and economic efforts in downtown Santa Monica was found dead in a possible murder-suicide, law enforcement sources tell NBC4 Investigates.

Jeremy Ferguson, the Director of Operations for Downtown Santa Monica, Inc., was found suffering from a gunshot wound Tuesday morning at a home in Venice, according to sources. The man’s wife was also found suffering from a gunshot wound at the scene.

According to sources with knowledge of the investigation, Ferguson emailed a friend a suicide note and instructions on how to get into the house. That friend arrived at the scene and called police.

Officials are treating the case as a murder-suicide, according to sources. It’s believed Ferguson shot his wife and then turned the gun on himself.

A possible motive for the shooting was not disclosed.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or chat live at 988lifeline.org. You can also visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional support.