Mario Fernandez Saldana murder trial begins for Jared Bridegan killing

The murder trial of Mario Fernandez Saldana has commenced in Florida, involving the 2022 assassination of Microsoft executive Jared Bridegan. Prosecutors allege that Fernandez Saldana helped orchestrate and fund a murder-for-hire plot against Bridegan.

According to the prosecution, Bridegan was ambushed and shot multiple times in a roadside attack after stopping to remove a tire placed in the middle of the road. The incident occurred in a residential area known as ‘Sanctuary’ shortly after Bridegan had dropped off his twins at the home of his ex-wife, Shanna Gardner-Fernandez.

During opening statements and testimony, Kirsten Bridegan described a high-conflict custody battle and a lack of trust between the households. Prosecutors contend that only Gardner-Fernandez and Fernandez Saldana knew Bridegan’s specific route and schedule. While Fernandez Saldana has pleaded not guilty, investigators have presented surveillance footage tracking a truck near the scene of the shooting. Henry Tenon is also accused of carrying out the actual shooting.