Santa Rosa, Calif. — The Santa Rosa community is grappling with heartbreak following a tragic domestic incident last weekend that resulted in the deaths of Mari Bonnici and her former partner, off-duty Deputy Sheriff Jeremy Lyle. Authorities report that the incident began as a suspected domestic dispute and ended after an extended standoff with law enforcement, leaving the couple’s three young children orphaned.
The Incident
According to local law enforcement, the confrontation escalated late Saturday evening when Deputy Lyle, who was off duty at the time, fatally shot Bonnici before taking his own life. Officials have stated that the precise circumstances leading up to the standoff are under investigation, but stress that there is no ongoing threat to the community.
The victims leave behind three children: 1½-year-old twins, Victoria and Madison, and 10-month-old Rush. Friends, family, and neighbors describe the children’s parents as loving and devoted, and the sudden loss has shocked those who knew the family.
Community Support Efforts
In the wake of the tragedy, the Deputies’ Association (DSA) and the Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC) have established a fund to assist the children and their guardians. Contributions to the fund will be channeled directly to support the children’s care and future needs.
“This is an incredibly difficult situation, and while none of us can replace the loss in their lives, we can help keep their future bright,” a spokesperson from the DSA said. The organization is encouraging members of the Santa Rosa community and beyond to contribute to the fund to support the children during this unimaginable time.
A Community in Mourning
Neighbors and friends expressed shock and sadness over the events. Many described the family as close-knit and loving, emphasizing the devastating impact of the loss on the children and the broader community.
“This is just heartbreaking,” one neighbor said. “These children have lost both of their parents, and the community is rallying to ensure they are cared for and supported in every way possible.”
Resources and Assistance
Local authorities, social service organizations, and community leaders are coordinating to ensure that the children’s immediate needs — including housing, medical care, and emotional support — are met. Professionals working with the family stress the importance of community involvement and encourage residents to provide support through official channels.
The tragic deaths of Bonnici and Lyle serve as a sobering reminder of the dangers of domestic disputes and the lasting impact they can have on innocent children. As the Santa Rosa community mourns, there is also a focus on coming together to support those left behind and ensure that the children’s lives, while forever changed, remain as full and supported as possible.
How to Help
Those wishing to contribute can do so through the fund established via PORAC, which ensures that donations go directly to the care of the children and their guardians. The DSA emphasized that every contribution, no matter the size, helps make a difference in keeping the children’s future secure.
The Santa Rosa community continues to grieve while showing resilience and unity, determined to provide comfort and stability to the youngest victims of this devastating tragedy.
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