Jared Bridegan, a Microsoft manager with two young children, was shot and killed on a road in Florida in February 2022. Now, four years later, his family is finally seeing the case go to trial.
The man accused of pulling the trigger — identified by authorities as a former colleague of Bridegan's — appeared in court this week as jury selection got underway. Prosecutors allege the killing was orchestrated by Bridegan's ex-wife, who they say hired the gunman for $200,000.
Bridegan, 33 at the time of his death, worked as a program manager at Microsoft's Redmond, Washington headquarters. He had recently moved to Florida and was in the process of divorcing his wife when he was killed on Feb. 16, 2022, near his home in Liberty County, authorities said.
Background
The case has remained largely out of public view for years as investigators built their case. According to court documents, authorities used phone records, financial transactions, and witness interviews to piece together what they say was a murder-for-hire scheme.
Bridegan had been driving with his two young children in the car when he stopped on the road, apparently to help what appeared to be a stranded motorist. That motorist, investigators allege, was the hitman. The children were not harmed but witnessed their father being shot, according to sources familiar with the investigation.
Bridegan's ex-wife was arrested separately and charged with conspiracy to commit murder. She has denied involvement in her former husband's death.
The Charges
The accused shooter faces a first-degree murder charge. Prosecutors have announced they will seek the death penalty. The ex-wife faces charges including solicitation of murder and conspiracy. Both cases are being prosecuted jointly by the Florida Attorney General's Office in coordination with local authorities.
Investigators say financial records show large cash withdrawals and payments allegedly made to the shooter in the months following Bridegan's death.
Key Takeaways
- Jared Bridegan was a Microsoft program manager killed in Florida in February 2022
- Authorities allege his ex-wife hired a hitman for $200,000
- The accused shooter is a former colleague of Bridegan's from Microsoft
- Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty against the alleged triggerman
- Bridegan's two young children were in the car during the shooting but survived
What's Next
Jury selection is expected to continue for several more days before opening statements begin. The ex-wife's trial has not yet been scheduled, though her case remains linked to that of the accused shooter. Both defendants have maintained their innocence throughout the proceedings.