A Family's Unyielding Quest for Justice: The Tragic Murder of Microsoft Engineer Jared Bridegan

The family of slain Microsoft engineer Jared Bridegan remains steadfast in their heart-wrenching pursuit of justice, firmly believing his ex-wife and her new husband are intricately linked to his brutal murder. Bridegan, a father of four, was tragically shot dead in February 2022 during what appeared to be a staged roadside ambush, occurring chillingly in front of his then-two-year-old daughter.

Bridegan had just dropped off his twins from his first marriage at his ex-wife Shanna Gardner-Fernandez's home in Jacksonville Beach, Florida.

On his way back to St. Augustine, he encountered a tire in the middle of a dark, remote road. Believing it to be a genuine hazard, he stopped to move it. It was at this vulnerable moment that an assailant ambushed him, firing multiple shots, killing him instantly. His toddler daughter, Bexley, was unharmed in the back seat but bore witness to the horrific event.

From the outset, Bridegan's widow, Kirsten Bridegan, and his family harbored deep suspicions about Shanna Gardner-Fernandez and her new husband, Mario Fernandez.

Their previous marriage had been fraught with bitter custody disputes, and legal documents revealed a contentious relationship that escalated after their divorce.

The investigation, initially slow and agonizing for the family, eventually yielded significant breakthroughs. In January 2023, Henry Tenon, identified as the gunman, was arrested.

He later pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors, providing crucial information that implicated others. This led to the arrest of Mario Fernandez, Shanna Gardner-Fernandez's husband, in March 2023. He was charged with first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, solicitation to commit a capital felony, and child abuse.

Prosecutors allege Fernandez orchestrated the plot, with Tenon acting as the triggerman.

The net continued to tighten when Shanna Gardner-Fernandez herself was arrested in August 2023 in Washington State, where she had relocated. She faces similar charges to her husband, including first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, solicitation to commit a capital felony, and child abuse.

Authorities believe she played a critical role in planning and executing the murder, fueled by animosity stemming from the custody battle.

The family's emotional journey has been an arduous one, marked by grief, frustration, and an unyielding demand for accountability. Kirsten Bridegan has become a vocal advocate, repeatedly appearing in media and at court proceedings, ensuring Jared's story and the fight for justice remain in the public eye.

She continues to raise their three children, including Bexley, who now requires ongoing therapy to cope with the trauma she experienced.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the Bridegan family holds onto hope that the full truth will emerge and that all responsible parties will be brought to justice.

Their resolve is a testament to their love for Jared and their determination to ensure his memory is honored with a definitive end to this devastating chapter.