Ex-Wife of Slain Microsoft Executive Indicted for First-Degree Murder
The ex-wife of Jared Bridegan, a Microsoft executive who was tragically killed last year, has been indicted for first-degree murder in what Florida prosecutors are calling a “cold, calculated and premeditated murder.” Shanna Gardner, the ex-wife, was indicted by a grand jury on Thursday, along with charges of conspiracy to commit first-degree murder and child abuse.
Jared Bridegan, 33 years old and a father of four, was fatally shot in the middle of a Jacksonville Beach street in what authorities have described as a targeted ambush. The shocking incident left Bridegan’s family and friends devastated and searching for answers. Last year, Gardner denied any involvement in her ex-husband’s murder during her only television interview, stating that despite their difficulties, he was still the father of her children.
Gardner’s arrest took place in West Richland, Washington, and authorities have indicated that she will be extradited to Duval County. Though Gardner’s last name has been previously reported as Gardner-Fernandez, the indictment and prosecutors referred to her as Gardner. Her attorney declined to comment on the case.
This indictment marks the third person charged in connection to Bridegan’s murder. Mario Fernandez Saldana, Gardner’s current husband, was indicted five months ago on multiple charges including first-degree murder. Furthermore, Henry Tenon, Fernandez Saldana’s former tenant, was arrested earlier this year and is accused of pulling the trigger.
During a press briefing on Thursday, State Attorney Melissa Nelson stated, “This investigation has uncovered the truth of Jared’s murder. Henry Tenon did not act alone. Mario Fernandez did not plan alone, and Shanna Gardner’s indictment acknowledges her central and key role in the cold, calculated and premeditated murder of Jared Bridegan.”
The events leading up to Bridegan’s murder began in February 2022 when he was driving his then-2-year-old daughter in Jacksonville Beach and encountered a tire blocking his path. When he stepped out of the car, he was ambushed and killed. Nearly a year later, in January 2023, Tenon was arrested in connection to the shooting and has since pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, cooperating with prosecutors.
Fernandez Saldana, charged with first-degree murder in March, has pleaded not guilty. Prosecutors have expressed their intention to seek the death penalty in his case. Nelson has emphasized that the tenant-landlord relationship was the “single link” connecting Tenon to Bridegan.
Authorities have also announced that they will seek the death penalty against Gardner, highlighting their commitment to uncovering the truth behind Bridegan’s murder. The night he was killed, Bridegan had just dropped off his twins, whom he shares with his ex-wife. He also had two other children with his wife, Kirsten Bridegan, one of whom was at home during the shooting.
In response to Gardner’s indictment, her parents, Shelli and Sterling Gardner, issued a statement expressing their profound sadness. They emphasized that family is their top priority and they will support their daughter and grandchildren during this difficult time. They have called for privacy as the legal process unfolds.
State Attorney Melissa Nelson has stated, “We promised at the outset of this investigation, we would not relent until we uncovered the truth of Jared’s murder.” As the case progresses, Bridegan’s loved ones continue to seek justice for his untimely death.