Jury Deliberates Murder-for-Hire Case of Slain Microsoft Manager

Fort Myers Naples, FL, August 26, 2026 —

A Florida jury is currently deliberating the fate of Mario Fernandez Saldana, who stands accused in a murder-for-hire plot that led to the death of Microsoft manager Jared Bridegan. Prosecutors have presented evidence alleging that the scheme was orchestrated by Bridegan’s ex-wife and her husband.

Jared Bridegan, a software development manager at Microsoft, was fatally shot in February 2022. The incident occurred in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, after Bridegan had stopped his vehicle. According to reports, he had pulled over to remove what appeared to be a tire from the roadway, a circumstance that investigators believe was a setup.

The investigation into Bridegan’s death has focused on a complex web of relationships and alleged motives. Saldana is one of the individuals charged in connection with the murder. The prosecution’s case suggests that the killing was not random but a premeditated act stemming from a murder-for-hire arrangement. The ex-wife and her husband have also been implicated in the alleged conspiracy.

Details surrounding the timeline and specifics of the alleged plot are part of the evidence being considered by the jury. The trial has brought to light the circumstances of Bridegan’s final moments, emphasizing the ambush that took place as he attempted to clear an obstruction from the road.

The jury’s deliberations mark a critical stage in the legal proceedings. Their decision will determine the outcome for Mario Fernandez Saldana, who is facing charges related to the murder. The broader investigation continues to examine the roles of other individuals allegedly involved in the conspiracy.

Story summarized from the original created by AP on apnews.com, see more information here.