Tamarac Triple Murder: Authorities Under Fire for Returning Gun to Suspected Killer

In a shocking revelation, records show that the handgun and suppressor used in the tragic triple homicide of a Tamarac mother, her father, and her neighbor had previously been returned to the accused killer by the Broward Sheriff’s Office. This disturbing detail raises serious concerns about law enforcement’s handling of the case and the failure to prevent a deadly act of violence.

According to NBC6 Investigates, more than a dozen firearms and a stockpile of ammunition were originally confiscated from Nathan Gingles after his then-wife, Mary Catherine Gingles, filed a domestic violence injunction. However, in August, after Mary dropped the injunction, all of the weapons were given back to him. The situation escalated in January when a judge ordered the firearms to be re-confiscated after a second injunction was granted—yet deputies failed to act. That failure ultimately had devastating consequences.

The Broward Sheriff’s Office is now facing scrutiny over its role in the case. Eight deputies have been suspended, and a captain has been demoted, pending an internal investigation into the department’s missteps. Authorities also revealed that there were 18 police calls to the house in the year leading up to the murders, further emphasizing the gravity of the situation and missed warning signs.

The tragic attack unfolded in front of Mary’s 4-year-old daughter when Gingles allegedly shot and killed Mary, her father David Ponzer, and their neighbor Andrew Ferrin—who had tried to help Mary as she fled for safety.

This case has sparked outrage and renewed discussions about domestic violence protection laws, gun control policies, and law enforcement accountability. Many are now questioning how such a fatal oversight occurred and what measures need to be implemented to prevent similar tragedies in the future.