Overview
- The trial of Mario Fernandez Saldana opened Monday, August 17, 2026, on charges of first-degree murder and solicitation in the 2022 ambush killing of Jared Bridegan.
- Prosecutors say the plot was driven by a long, bitter custody fight and that a tire was placed in the road to lure Bridegan out of his car while his 2-year-old sat in a rear car seat.
- Investigators point to physical and digital links that include DNA on a tire matching the alleged shooter, a similar tire found at a rental property tied to Saldana, checks and other payments to the alleged shooter, and GPS and phone records.
- The alleged gunman, Henry Tenon, originally pleaded guilty in 2023 and agreed to cooperate but withdrew that plea in January 2025 and will face his own trial in March 2027 while co-defendant Shanna Gardner is set for trial later this month.
- Defense teams challenge the forensic and testimonial links, offer alibis and question Tenon’s credibility, and prosecutors must now reframe their case without a promised cooperating witness which could shape evidence strategy and witness choices going forward.