Boyfriend of 'SNL' writer's sister among 2 arrested in connection with her murder, LAPD says

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The boyfriend of Christina Downer, sister of an 'SNL' writer, and another person have been arrested in connection with her murder, the Los Angeles Police Department said.

The LAPD's Robbery-Homicide Division announced the arrests of Delorean Bijon Brandon and Kaylee Nicole Markowski in the case on Friday.

Downer was reported missing on Dec. 18, 2025, after her ex-husband requested a welfare check when he had not heard from her for an extended period of time. According to police, Downer's boyfriend, Brandon, told authorities that she had moved out several months earlier, leaving behind all of her belongings, including her vehicle and dog.

The investigation was later assumed by Robbery-Homicide Division detectives after Downer's cellphone was discovered washed ashore on Santa Monica Beach.

Police said detectives used various investigative techniques and identified Brandon and Markowski as being responsible for Downer's murder, the disposal of her body and the concealment of their involvement.

On Oct. 29, 2026, detectives arrested Brandon in the 6000 block of Garvanza Avenue in Los Angeles and Markowski in the 6000 block of Tampa Avenue in Tarzana.

Brandon, 41, was booked at the Metropolitan Detention Center on suspicion of murder. Markowski, 34, was also booked at the Metropolitan Detention Center on suspicion of murder. Bail for each suspect was set at $2 million, police said.

Robbery-Homicide Division detectives plan to present the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office for filing consideration.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the LAPD's Robbery-Homicide Division, West Bureau Section, at 213-382-9470. During non-business hours or weekends, callers can contact 1-877-527-3247. Anonymous tips may be submitted through L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at lacrimestoppers.org or through the P3 Tips mobile application.