SNL Writer Jimmy Fowlie Confirms Sister’s Death in Homicide Investigation After Months-Long Search

Los Angeles, CA — Saturday Night Live writer Jimmy Fowlie confirmed on Instagram that his sister, Christina Lynn Downer, is dead, four months after she went missing. The case has now been classified as a homicide investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).

In a statement posted on Wednesday, Fowlie said:

"The LAPD has informed our family that Christina is no longer alive, and the case has officially transitioned from a missing person to a homicide investigation. Our prayers for her to be found safely have transformed into prayers for the truth to be revealed and for those responsible to be held accountable."

Fowlie first reported Downer missing in December, sharing a missing persons poster on Instagram in hopes of gathering information. The post was widely shared by celebrities, including SNL cast members Sarah Sherman and Bowen Yang.

In his latest update, Fowlie revealed that the family has "reason to believe that in the weeks before she went missing, her phone and social media were compromised." He alleged that those responsible demanded money and fabricated a false narrative that Downer was intentionally going "off the grid."

"I am sharing this because I believe that whoever is responsible is hoping to erase her in every way possible. I want to amplify her story in the only way I know how. And to express that she was a beautiful person who matters in this world, especially to me. I also believe there is a chance that someone who knows something might find the courage to step forward."

Fowlie, who joined SNL during Season 48 and co-wrote the Netflix comedy "Roommates" starring Sadie Sandler and Chloe East, announced he would step away from social media due to "intense overwhelming feelings." He urged the public to contact the LAPD directly with any information rather than reaching out to him.

"My sister can no longer advocate for herself, but I can and I hope you will too. The best way you could support me in this moment is to share this post and to talk about her story."

Fowlie’s statement comes after months of uncertainty and public appeals for help in locating Downer. The transition of the case to a homicide investigation marks a significant shift in the investigation.