Santa Rosa Tragedy: Off-Duty Sonoma County Sheriff’s Deputy Jeremy Lyle Kills Mari Bonnici Mother of His Children, Then Himself
Santa Rosa police have confirmed a devastating incident that unfolded over the weekend, leaving four children without their parents and a community reeling in shock. Authorities say that Jeremy Lyle, an off-duty deputy with the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office, fatally shot 44-year-old Mari Bonnici—the mother of his three children—inside her Santa Rosa apartment before taking his own life in the parking lot of the Sonoma County Coroner’s Office.
According to Santa Rosa Police Department spokespersons, officers were called to an apartment complex in the 400 block on Saturday evening after receiving reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers discovered Bonnici inside her residence suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite efforts by emergency responders, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators say preliminary evidence points to Lyle, 44, as the sole suspect in Bonnici’s killing. The couple had been in a long-term relationship but were no longer living together. They shared three children, while Bonnici had a fourth child from a previous relationship. Authorities have not publicly detailed the events leading up to the shooting, but they have confirmed that the couple had a history of domestic issues.
Following the shooting, police believe Lyle drove directly to the parking lot of the Sonoma County Coroner’s Office in Santa Rosa. There, he took his own life with a firearm. Law enforcement officials discovered his body outside the facility early Sunday morning after a passerby reported a vehicle with a man slumped inside.
The Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office has acknowledged the incident and confirmed Lyle’s employment status at the time of his death. Sheriff Eddie Engram released a statement expressing deep grief over the loss of both lives and acknowledging the enormous emotional toll on the department’s personnel:
“This is an unfathomable tragedy that has left children without parents and has shaken our entire community. Our thoughts are with the family members, friends, and colleagues who are grieving during this incredibly painful time. We are cooperating fully with the Santa Rosa Police Department in their investigation.”
The Sheriff’s Office also confirmed that Lyle was off duty when the shootings occurred and that his service weapon was not involved. Investigators are working to determine the firearm’s origin and the timeline of events that led to the violence.
Neighbors described Bonnici as a devoted mother who worked tirelessly to provide for her children. She was known for her warm smile, willingness to help others, and deep love for her family. Friends say she had recently been focusing on creating a stable, safe environment for her children following the separation from Lyle.
Local domestic violence advocates have used the tragedy to highlight the urgent need for community awareness and resources for families in crisis. “This is a heartbreaking reminder that domestic violence can happen in any home, regardless of background or profession,” said [Name], director of [Local Organization]. “We need to ensure that support systems are available and accessible before situations escalate to such irreversible ends.”
The couple’s children are currently in the care of relatives, with counseling services being arranged. Authorities have asked that the public respect the family’s privacy as they navigate the devastating aftermath.
Santa Rosa Police continue to investigate the case, reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and piecing together the events that culminated in the deaths. Officials say the investigation is ongoing but that no other suspects are being sought.
A community vigil for Bonnici is being planned for later this week, offering friends, neighbors, and supporters an opportunity to remember her life and show solidarity for her children.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788 for confidential support 24/7.
