Microsoft Manager Killed in Murder-for-Hire Scheme Over Custody Disputes

A Florida man, Jared Bridegan, was killed in a murder-for-hire scheme on a Jacksonville Beach road in February 2022. The victim, a Microsoft design manager, had just returned two children to his ex-wife's home after dinner when he stopped his SUV to remove a tire from the road.

Prosecutors believe Jared Bridegan was targeted because of ongoing custody disputes with his wealthy ex-wife, Shanna Gardner. They claim that Fernandez Saldana, her husband, arranged for the killing as part of their efforts to gain more control over the twins' lives.

Fernandez Saldana, 38, has been convicted of first-degree murder and solicitation of murder. He faces a life sentence in prison. His wife's trial is set to start in September.