Media director for Tom Schweich found dead

Jefferson City police have confirmed that Spence Jackson, the former media director for late state auditor Tom Schweich, has died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

During a press conference Monday afternoon, Captain Doug Shoemaker said Jackson may have died Friday or Saturday. Right now police are not commenting on what part of the body the gunshot wound affected. Shoemaker did say there was a note and a revolver left at the scene, but so far are not sharing the context of that note.

Investigators say Spence Jackson’s mother is the one who called police because she could not get a hold of him.

Police found Jackson dead inside his Jefferson City apartment just after 7 p.m. Sunday. They initially responded to Jackson’s apartment for a “check well-being” call after a family member wasn’t able to contact Jackson.

Detectives say physical evidence at the scene points to a suicide and there were no signs of a forced entry or a struggle.

They are working to talk to residents in the area and contact those who knew Jackson.

An autopsy is scheduled for Monday.

Jackson’s death comes about a month after Schweich also committed suicide.

In the days following Schweich’s death by suicide, Jackson had become a vocal critic of Schweich’s political adversaries. At one point, he called for the resignation of Missouri Republican leader John Hancock, who had been accused by some of starting an anti-Semitic whisper campaign against Schweich. Those accusations have not been proven.

Former Missouri Gov. Matt Blunt put out the following statement Monday morning:

“Melanie and I are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Spence Jackson who was a good friend for many years. Spence was a gifted communicator who dedicated his talents in public affairs to public service. Over his career he served as chief spokesman for three of Missouri’s statewide offices including that of the governor when I held that post. Spence was hard-working, well-liked and quick-witted. He will truly be missed. We mourn his passing and offer our prayers to his family and friends.”

Stay with ABC 17 News as we continue to learn more on this developing story.