Melissa Nelson, the state attorney for the 4th Judicial Circuit in Florida, announced during a press conference that a grand jury had indicted Shanna Gardner on multiple charges. These charges include first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, solicitation to commit first-degree murder, and child abuse.
“Shanna Gardner’s indictment highlights her critical and leading involvement in the deliberate and calculated murder of Jared Bridegan,” stated Nelson at the news briefing.
The incident in question transpired in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, when Jared Bridegan was fatally shot in the presence of his 2-year-old daughter. He had exited his vehicle to attend to a tire obstructing the road. The gruesome occurrence left an indelible mark on the young child who witnessed the tragic event unfold from inside the car.
Investigative authorities have revealed that Gardner collaborated with her husband, Mario Fernandez-Saldana, to orchestrate Bridegan’s murder. However, the couple sought the services of Henry Tenon, an individual who was renting a property owned by Fernandez-Saldana. Tenon has since admitted guilt to second-degree murder and has agreed to cooperate as a witness against any accomplices.
Shanna Gardner was apprehended in West Richland, Washington, by federal agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Reports confirm that she is being held without the option of bail in the Benton County, Washington, detention facility.
Prosecutors plan to initiate extradition proceedings to transport Gardner to Duval County, Florida, where she will face the charges levied against her.
In the midst of these developments, Kirsten Bridegan, the widow of Jared Bridegan, expressed her relief and anticipation for justice. She shared her sentiments with the media, stating, “The arrest of Shanna marks the closure of a distressing chapter in our quest for justice for Jared. We are determined to witness the full extent of the law’s retribution.”