Mario Fernandez-Saldana, accused of helping plan the 2022 shooting death of St. Augustine father of four Jared Bridegan, is on trial for first-degree murder.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The first of three murder trials tied to the killing of Jared Bridegan got underway Monday, more than four years after the 2022 ambush that left the St. Augustine father of four dead while he was driving with his 2-year-old daughter.
Fernandez-Saldana faces charges of first-degree murder and solicitation to commit a felony in Bridegan’s death. Prosecutors allege he helped orchestrate the killing with his estranged wife, Shanna Gardner, who was previously married to Bridegan.
The opening day of Fernandez-Saldana’s trial featured emotional testimony from Bridegan’s widow, Kirsten Bridegan, along with accounts from witnesses who were among the first people to reach the scene after the shooting.
The trial moves into its second day with prosecutors expected to call law enforcement witnesses. Court proceedings are scheduled to resume at 9 a.m. with Judge London Kite presiding.
Editor’s note: For a recap of day one of the trial, click here.
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Live Updates
Jacksonville Beach Police Department Officer Shane Jarman (state witness) –
9:11 a.m. – State calls Shane Jarman to the witness stand.
9:11 a.m. – Jury enters the courtroom.
