Mario Fernandez Saldana Trial Continues in Jared Bridegan Murder Case

Mario Fernandez Saldana is standing trial in Duval County, Florida, in connection with the 2022 murder of Jared Bridegan. Fernandez has pleaded not guilty, and the trial remains ongoing with no verdict reached.

On August 17, 2026, Jared’s widow, Kirsten Bridegan, took the witness stand. She spoke about Jared, their family, and the devastating aftermath of his killing. During her testimony, she said she immediately suspected Shanna Gardner, Jared’s former wife.

The following day, August 18, jurors continued hearing testimony and reviewing evidence. One notable moment came when prosecutors played a 2022 police interview with Fernandez. In the recording, Fernandez reportedly referred to Jared as a “keyboard warrior.”

Prosecutors allege that Fernandez hired Henry Tenon for approximately $10,000 to kill Jared. They argue that the placement of a tire in the middle of the road was part of an ambush designed to force Jared to stop. Investigators reportedly found Tenon’s DNA on the tire.

The defense disputes the prosecution’s theory, arguing that Fernandez was not the mastermind behind the killing. Defense attorneys maintain that Tenon had been hired for routine work and argue that there is no evidence Fernandez wanted Jared dead.

What happens next

Fernandez’s case is the first of three trials connected to Jared Bridegan’s murder.

• Mario Fernandez Saldana: Trial currently underway.
• Shanna Gardner: Her trial is scheduled to begin in September 2026.
• Henry Tenon: His trial is expected to take place in March 2027.

The prosecution and defense are presenting sharply different accounts of Fernandez’s alleged role in the killing, and no verdict has been reached. Fernandez remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Source: First Coast News