Florida Woman Charged in Murder of Microsoft Exec Ex-Husband Caught on Camera Tearfully Recalling Heartbreaking News to Their Children
Nov 21, 2023, 11:00 AM
Shanna Gardner, the Florida woman facing first-degree murder charges for her alleged involvement in the murder of Microsoft executive Jared Bridegan, was captured on camera months before her arrest, sharing a tearful account of how she and Jared's second wife, Kirsten, broke the devastating news to their children. Gardner, who has hired prominent defense attorney Jose Baez, had previously spoken to Action Jax, expressing shock at her ex-husband's death and proclaiming her innocence.
In a heart-wrenching interview, Gardner recounted the emotional moment when they informed the children about Jared Bridegan's tragic demise. "It was a very quick visit," Gardner revealed, "And we just wanted it very clear that this is to honor his memory. We didn't want too many details. … I think we all can agree that we love the kids, and they needed to be the priority."
A year later, Gardner faces severe legal consequences as she stands accused of engineering her ex-husband's murder, which took place in February 2022. On that fateful day, Jared Bridegan had just dropped off their twins at Gardner's Jacksonville Beach residence when he encountered a tire blocking his path. Tragically, he was shot multiple times while investigating the obstruction, with his 2-year-old daughter with Kirsten in the backseat.
Gardner's involvement in a bruising custody battle with Jared at the time raised suspicions. To counter these whispers, she gave an interview to "Action Jax" TV station in June 2022, where she vehemently declared her innocence. Recent excerpts from this interview have been released, revealing Gardner's emotional state as she discussed the murder she is now accused of initiating.
"I found out in the middle of the night," Gardner said, reflecting on her ex-husband's death. "I was shocked." Her emotions also spilled over when she spoke about the impact of the tragedy on their children, stating, "I can't imagine as children what that kind of news would mean, to have to process that. Much less something that they love, their father."
Gardner additionally reminisced about her initial encounter with Jared Bridegan, whom she would later be charged with killing. She revealed they were set up on a blind date in Salt Lake City two decades ago, leading to a fast-paced relationship and eventual marriage. "We got married soon after dating. Within a couple of years, we had twins. Any time kids come into the mix, it's a lot," Gardner said.
The legal ramifications of the case have extended beyond Gardner, as her new husband, Mario Fernandez, and a former tenant, Henry Tenon, have also been charged in connection with Jared's murder. The case has garnered significant attention due to the involvement of a prominent Microsoft executive, the emotional toll on the children, and Gardner's hiring of Jose Baez, known for securing an acquittal for Casey Anthony.
As the legal proceedings continue, the community remains gripped by the tragic events surrounding Jared Bridegan's death, and the questions surrounding his murder remain unanswered.
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In a heart-wrenching interview, Gardner recounted the emotional moment when they informed the children about Jared Bridegan's tragic demise. "It was a very quick visit," Gardner revealed, "And we just wanted it very clear that this is to honor his memory. We didn't want too many details. … I think we all can agree that we love the kids, and they needed to be the priority."
A year later, Gardner faces severe legal consequences as she stands accused of engineering her ex-husband's murder, which took place in February 2022. On that fateful day, Jared Bridegan had just dropped off their twins at Gardner's Jacksonville Beach residence when he encountered a tire blocking his path. Tragically, he was shot multiple times while investigating the obstruction, with his 2-year-old daughter with Kirsten in the backseat.
Gardner's involvement in a bruising custody battle with Jared at the time raised suspicions. To counter these whispers, she gave an interview to "Action Jax" TV station in June 2022, where she vehemently declared her innocence. Recent excerpts from this interview have been released, revealing Gardner's emotional state as she discussed the murder she is now accused of initiating.
"I found out in the middle of the night," Gardner said, reflecting on her ex-husband's death. "I was shocked." Her emotions also spilled over when she spoke about the impact of the tragedy on their children, stating, "I can't imagine as children what that kind of news would mean, to have to process that. Much less something that they love, their father."
Gardner additionally reminisced about her initial encounter with Jared Bridegan, whom she would later be charged with killing. She revealed they were set up on a blind date in Salt Lake City two decades ago, leading to a fast-paced relationship and eventual marriage. "We got married soon after dating. Within a couple of years, we had twins. Any time kids come into the mix, it's a lot," Gardner said.
The legal ramifications of the case have extended beyond Gardner, as her new husband, Mario Fernandez, and a former tenant, Henry Tenon, have also been charged in connection with Jared's murder. The case has garnered significant attention due to the involvement of a prominent Microsoft executive, the emotional toll on the children, and Gardner's hiring of Jose Baez, known for securing an acquittal for Casey Anthony.
As the legal proceedings continue, the community remains gripped by the tragic events surrounding Jared Bridegan's death, and the questions surrounding his murder remain unanswered.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com