Father Gunned Down in Front of His 2-Year-Old Daughter — New Evidence Emerges
The brutal murder of Jared Bridegan shocked the nation — a calculated execution that left a young father gunned down in front of his 2-year-old daughter. On a routine evening in February 2022, the Microsoft executive was ambushed on a quiet road in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, after stopping to remove a tire blocking his path. As his helpless toddler sat in the back seat, Bridegan was shot multiple times at close range, leaving behind a devastated family and a community desperate for answers. What followed was a complex investigation uncovering an alleged murder-for-hire plot involving his ex-wife, her estranged husband, and a hired gunman. Now, nearly three years later, the case continues to unfold as prosecutors build their case and the fight for justice presses on.
Who Was Jared Bridegan?
Jared Bridegan was a 33-year-old Microsoft executive and devoted father of four. His life was tragically cut short on Feb. 16, 2022, when he was ambushed and shot in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. Bridegan had just dropped off his two children from a previous marriage at his ex-wife Shanna Gardner's home when he encountered a tire blocking the road. As he stepped out of his SUV to clear it, he was gunned down in front of his then-2-year-old daughter, Bexley, who sat helplessly in the back seat.
The execution-style murder sent shockwaves through the community and led investigators on a long and complex path to uncovering the truth. Authorities eventually arrested three individuals reportedly connected to the crime: Henry Tenon, the alleged triggerman; Mario Fernandez, Gardner's estranged husband; and Gardner herself, who was accused of orchestrating the killing amid a bitter custody battle.
The Evidence Battle: What Has Changed?
Since the arrests, the prosecution and defense have been locked in a series of legal battles over evidence. One of the most contentious issues has been access to financial records, particularly those belonging to Gardner, Fernandez, and Tenon. Prosecutors believe these records could reveal payments or transactions that point to a murder-for-hire plot.
On Jan. 31, Judge London M. Kite issued a court order granting access to encrypted financial records and allowing the Secret Service to assist in transferring this data to an independent attorney for review, as reported by News4JAX. This move could provide insight into the alleged financial connections between the suspects and establish a direct link between them regarding the planning and execution of the crime.
A Shocking Turn: The Gunman Changes His Story
Adding to the drama, Henry Tenon, who previously pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and agreed to testify against Gardner and Fernandez, has now reportedly backtracked on his testimony. Tenon's sudden reversal has raised questions about the credibility of his statements and could impact the prosecution's case. Defense attorneys quickly moved to obtain recordings of his jailhouse phone calls, suspecting he may have been coerced or influenced to change his story.
Shanna Gardner's Record
Since her 2023 arrest, Gardner has faced multiple disciplinary issues behind bars. Jail records reveal that she has been cited for drug possession, theft, disorderly conduct, and even possessing a makeshift tattoo needle, according to St. Johns Citizen. These incidents have only added to the scrutiny surrounding her character and involvement in the case. Despite the charges against her, Gardner has pleaded not guilty, and her legal team continues to fight the accusations.
The Road to Trial
As of now, Gardner and Fernandez's trial is set for October 2025, News4JAX reports. Legal experts speculate that the recent court order granting access to financial records could play a crucial role in determining whether the prosecution can establish a financial link between the accused and the crime.
Additionally, a case management hearing has been scheduled for March 28, 2025. During this hearing, prosecutors and defense attorneys will present updates on evidence review and trial preparation. The prosecution will likely focus on solidifying their case against Gardner and Fernandez, while the defense may seek to challenge the validity of Tenon's previous statements and the new financial evidence.
The Fight for Justice Continues
Jared Bridegan's widow, Kirsten Bridegan, has remained a vocal advocate for justice, attending court hearings and pushing for answers. She has consistently pointed to Gardner as the mastermind behind the murder, citing the bitter custody dispute as a possible motive. Kirsten, along with her and Jared's two young children, continues to navigate life without him while staying committed to seeing those responsible held accountable.
As the case unfolds it is a gripping legal battle that could set a precedent for handling financial evidence in murder-for-hire investigations.
References Woman charged with murdering Microsoft manager Jared Bridegan has new lover in prison: sources | Judge approves motion for jail phone records of Jared Bridegan's admitted gunman amid 'false testimony' claims
