Murder Trial Begins for Microsoft Executive's Ex-Husband
A former Microsoft executive's murder-for-hire plot has reached its trial phase in Florida. Jared Bridegan, 33, was shot multiple times in 2022 while driving with his 2-year-old child. The alleged killer, Mario Fernandez Saldana, 38, and Bridegan's ex-wife Shanna Gardner, 39, are accused of orchestrating the ambush.
Prosecutors say a tire was placed on the road to distract Bridegan, allowing an accomplice to carry out the attack. The motive behind the murder is believed to be related to custody disputes between Bridegan and his ex-wife over their two children.
Fernandez Saldana's trial began Monday in Duval County court with a jury of 12 people and four alternates. Meanwhile, Gardner is set to go on trial in September, facing charges including first-degree murder, conspiracy, and child abuse.