After a heated back-and-forth this week and an order from Judge London Kite that she turn over her phone to the court at 9 a.m. Friday morning, Jared Bridegan’s widow was given a reprieve, albeit a brief one, by the Fifth District Court of Appeals.
An FBI analyst, a former ATF agent and a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office detective testified Friday about digital evidence that prosecutors say led to the arrest of Mario Fernandez in the murder of Jared Bridegan.
Judge London Kite rejected objections from Kirsten Bridegan’s attorney Thursday and ordered Bridegan to turn over her cellphone to the court at 9 a.m. Friday so it can be reviewed and specific information can be turned over to Shanna Gardner’s defense team.
Mario Fernandez’s defense attorneys continued to challenge the strength of the evidence connecting their client to the murder-for-hire killing of Jared Bridegan when investigators in Bridegan’s murder took the stand Thursday.
Attorneys engaged in another heated courtroom debate on Wednesday morning over a motion from Shanna Gardner’s defense team to get material from the phone of Jared Bridegan’s widow.
Attorney Jesse Dreicer cross-examined Jacksonville Beach Police Detective Chris Johns about his case against Mario Fernandez in the February 2022 murder of Jared Bridegan.
Testimony on Tuesday in the trial of the man accused of orchestrating the February 2022 murder of Jared Bridegan in Jacksonville Beach included a minute-by-minute timeline of video evidence leading up to the deadly ambush shooting.
More than four years after Jared Bridegan was repeatedly shot outside his vehicle while his 2-year-old daughter was strapped in a car seat, his widow testified Monday in the trial of the man charged with arranging the fatal ambush.
With 12 jurors and four alternates selected, the trial for Mario Fernandez Saldana will begin Monday with opening statements from the prosecution and the defense. Attorney Gene Nichols explains what we can expect.
After the defense had its chance on Thursday morning to ask more in-depth questions of potential jurors, the jury for the Mario Fernandez murder trial was seated in the afternoon.
The second phase of jury selection in the Mario Fernandez murder trial began Wednesday with one of the remaining jurors being dismissed after a co-worker reported she broke the rules.
The first phase of jury selection wrapped up early on Tuesday in the trial of Mario Fernandez after the court spent Monday weeding through the first batch of 100 potential jurors.
Jury selection begins Monday in the trial of Mario Fernandez, the first of three defendants to head to court in the Jared Bridegan murder-for-hire case.
Kevin Hoffman had a 2025 probation was dropped early after reckless driving offense
As Mario Fernandez prepares for the beginning of jury selection in just over a week, Judge London Kite is expected to decide on some final motions from his defense attorneys on Friday in the high-profile Jared Bridegan murder-for-hire case.
At least three older teens were among four people injured Saturday night in a shooting on Jacksonville’s Westside, according to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.
A Jacksonville attorney says the defense likely wasn't caught off guard by new state evidence suggesting a second person fled the scene the night Jared Bridegan was killed. The revelation comes less than two weeks before the first of three murder trials is set to begin.
While arguing a motion ahead of the high-profile trial for Mario Fernandez in the murder-for-hire death of Jared Bridegan, Assistant State Attorney Alan Mizrahi revealed new information about the case on Friday.
As Mario Fernandez prepares for the beginning of jury selection in just over a week, Judge London Kite is expected to decide on some final motions from his defense attorneys on Friday in the high-profile Jared Bridegan murder-for-hire case.
During one of the last hearings before jury selection begins in the trial of Mario Fernandez, Judge London Kite indicated that the defense had discussed a possible plea deal with prosecutors.
Two of the four charges against Mario Fernandez have been dropped, prosecutors announced during Monday’s final hearing before the start of the first of three trials in the high-profile Jared Bridegan murder-for-hire case.
A Florida judge ruled Tuesday that defense attorneys in the Shanna Gardner murder case will be allowed to make a private, in-camera proffer in a closed hearing — after a heated courtroom debate over discovery rules, constitutional rights and court procedure.
The estranged couple accused of orchestrating the ambush murder of a 33-year-old father of four in 2022 will be back in court again on Monday as the judge makes decisions on some final motions heading into next month’s trials.
A man is in critical but stable condition after police said he was shot in the face following an argument outside a Baymeadows area bar late Friday night.
Shanna Gardner and her estranged second husband, Mario Fernandez, are due back in court on Thursday as the time to prepare for their separate murder trials winds down.
The Jacksonville 4th of July Fireworks Celebration is currently in a Code Blue due to cloud-to-ground lightning detected within a 10-mile radius of the event site, JaxReady said on its Twitter account.
The prosecution will be allowed to share evidence in court that was obtained from Shanna Gardner’s electronics through court-authorized wiretaps, Judge London Kite ruled.
Nearly two months after they learned they will be tried separately in what investigators call a murder-for-hire plot to kill Jared Bridegan, Shanna Gardner and Mario Fernandez were back in court on Monday as Judge London Kite continues to work through pre-trial motions.
Prosecutors and defense attorneys for both Shanna Gardner and Mario Fernandez have agreed that the two should be tried separately in the high-profile Jared Bridegan murder-for-hire case.
One of the men accused of plotting to kill St. Johns County father of four Jared Bridegan in 2022 will return to court Thursday for another pre-trial hearing while his case moves through the judicial process.
One of the men accused of plotting to kill St. Johns County father of four Jared Bridegan in 2022 will return to court Thursday for another pre-trial hearing while his case moves through the judicial process.
One of the men accused of plotting to kill St. Johns County father of four Jared Bridegan in 2022 is expected to find out Thursday if he could be released from jail while his case moves through the judicial process.
Members of Jacksonville’s Iranian community gathered at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park this weekend, not in protest, but in celebration. Many of them said they believe the latest developments in Iran could mark a turning point for their homeland and for loved ones still there.
Four years ago today, 33-year-old Microsoft executive Jared Bridegan was gunned down in Jacksonville Beach in what investigators would later describe as a murder-for-hire plot they say was orchestrated by his ex-wife and her new husband.
The mother of Jacquez Anlage, who was shot and killed a little more than five years ago, just before his 21st birthday, shared with News4JAX on Christmas Day how she and other survivors support each other during the holidays and other hard times.
A Jacksonville woman said she was terrified this summer when two officers with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office overstepped their authority and tried to illegally evict her.
The holidays bring family and fun — but also a higher risk of illness. A pediatrician shares simple tips to stay healthy, from washing hands to getting your flu shot.
The mother of a toddler at the center of one of the biggest missing child cases in the Jacksonville area was released from prison on Wednesday after serving time in connection with his death.
A woman found dead Saturday in the parking lot of a business on Sunbeam Road has been identified by her sister as 24-year-old Cherrish Nunley, a mother of two.
A handyman who lived on the property of a commercial building on Heckscher Drive fell off a two-story roof late Sunday night and was found early Monday morning, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office said.
A Baptist Health patient says she was shocked to find another person’s private medical information in her online health portal, raising serious concerns about patient privacy and data security.
A Jacksonville man suffered severe injuries, including a broken femur and facial trauma, after a car hit his electric mini-bike, Friday.
Whether you trick-or-treat in your own neighborhood or have a favorite spot to take your kiddos, it’s a good idea to know before you head out who they might encounter.
City leaders say they’re working on both short-term fixes and long-term solutions to prevent the problem from getting worse after several pharmacies closed on the Northside, and local pharmacists say they’re ready to help fill the gap as thousands of families look to fill prescriptions.
New evidence released Wednesday by the State Attorney’s Office offers a glimpse into the earliest moments of the investigation into the ambush murder of Jared Bridegan, a 33-year-old father of four gunned down in Jacksonville Beach in February 2022.
A 911 call about a suspicious person in the yard of a South St. Augustine home on Wednesday morning ended in a deadly deputy-involved shooting, according to the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office.
An upcoming Jacksonville event aims to help families prepare for aging-related health emergencies by offering expert advice on care options, financial planning and legal decisions before a crisis occurs.
St. Johns County GOP reports second impersonation attempt in less than two years. Last year the group was trying to determine who’s responsible for sending out fake voter guides, with their information on it.
Just north of downtown Jacksonville, Historic Springfield is a neighborhood where history lives on through restored homes, century-old streets, and a close-knit community.
Thousands of families in Northeast Florida face cuts to after-school and summer programs due to a federal funding freeze affecting education and food assistance grants.
Floridians can now save on disaster supplies year-round. A new law removes sales tax on essential items like batteries, generators, and tarps — no more waiting for seasonal tax holidays.
Florida’s new law increases penalties for drivers caught speeding more than 50 mph over the limit, including possible jail time and mandatory court appearances.
A meeting Tuesday of the Jacksonville City Council's Special Committee on Duval DOGE comes after City Councilman Ron Salem announced the committee discovered more than $25 million in unspent funds sitting in the city’s budget.
Jacksonville City Council will discuss new rules to prevent disruptions during meetings, following a May incident that led to three arrests. A protest today calls for dropped charges and the rejection of a controversial ordinance.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office is asking for help to find 14-year-old Leland Scales, also known as Mikey, who is a missing and endangered teen diagnosed with autism.
As of Monday, Phillips was being held in the Duval County jail after being transported from Suwannee County Correctional, according to court records.
The Jacksonville Public Library’s Summer Learning Program runs now through Aug. 2, offering free reading challenges, STEM activities, and family-friendly events to help kids stay engaged and prevent summer learning loss.
With hurricane season looming, UF Health Jacksonville is storm-ready—thanks to “Disaster Jen,” the fearless emergency manager leading critical drills and disaster response planning.
The Downtown Investment Authority is redirecting funds to help prepare the long-vacant 1903 church for private redevelopment, aiming to bring new life to the downtown landmark.
Florida has passed a new law requiring school districts to provide bus transportation for students who live in areas considered too dangerous to walk or bike. The change comes after years of crashes and safety concerns near Liberty Pines Academy and other communities across the state.
This issue of whether to renovate or relocate the jail has been debated for years, and now some residents in Duval County want to be sure their voices are heard.
Infertility affects 1 in 6 couples, yet it’s often left undiscussed. Experts are encouraging open conversations and early medical evaluation to help couples navigate the challenges of starting a family.
HCA Florida Memorial Hospital hosted a heartfelt tribute honoring organ donors, recipients, and families — all sharing powerful stories to raise awareness about the growing need for organ donation.
Students at Florida State University shared their perspectives live with News4JAX on Thursday as we covered the developing story of the active shooter at the Student Union on campus.
Jacksonville University is the only school in the nation with two student teams named finalists in NASA’s 2025 Human Lander Challenge. The teams will present innovative cryogenic fuel solutions to support future Moon and Mars missions.
As the Florida Legislature considers two bills that could slash funding for popular acceleration programs in public schools, students, parents and school district leaders are sharing vocal opposition to the changes.
Duval County Public Schools could lose up to $8 million in funding if proposed changes to state laws pass, potentially cutting 50% of financial support for critical student programs like Advanced Placement and Career Education.
Two bills moving through the Florida Legislature aim to block development in nine state parks, including Anastasia State Park, but environmental advocates are concerned the bills lack specific protections. Protests are being held throughout April, urging lawmakers to amend the bills to ensure stronger safeguards against commercial development.
Kitty’s Carwash, a woman and Black-owned business on Jacksonville’s Northside, was founded by Nakita "Kitty" Watley. The Northside native and Ribault High alum, grew the business through passion and determination, becoming a standout in Duval County’s entrepreneurial landscape.
A new survey by McAfee reveals that Gen Z, despite being tech-savvy, is the most targeted group for AI-driven tax scams, with scammers using fake IRS communications to steal personal information.
Students at Riverside High School were on lockout Tuesday morning after a threat was reported, the Duval County school district said.
Pecan Park Flea and Farmer’s Market, a Northside Jacksonville staple, offers everything from everyday essentials to unique 3D-printed creations at D&A 3D Prints.
Orange Park Junior High School has enhanced its campus security with new safety protocols, including ID checks and increased monitoring of social media threats, to protect students and staff.
The St. Johns County Cultural Resource Review Board is considering demolishing the historic old county jail, a site linked to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s arrest during the civil rights movement. Local groups are advocating for its preservation as a landmark.
The White House lifted its freeze on federal funding Wednesday, a move that has come as a relief to many organizations that rely on loans and grants to continue their operations.
Two juveniles were killed in a shooting early Sunday at an apartment complex on Jacksonville’s Northside, according to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.
The federal government is sending $1 million to Jacksonville to help those at risk of homelessness due to recent hurricanes, providing shelter and support services. The funding is part of a broader effort to address needs not met by federal disaster relief programs.
After years of ongoing deadly violence, Jacksonville’s total number of homicides in 2024 dropped by nearly half from the previous year: from 158 to just 82.
Lions, tigers, and other big cats love playing with trees, so the staff at Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary in Jacksonville suggests that people help both the environment and their furry friends by recycling Christmas trees.
A 30-year-old man is facing multiple counts of driving under the influence after police said he slammed his Ford Ranger into the back of a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office cruiser that was stopped to help another driver on the Mathews Bridge.
A shooting during a fight inside Elevation Lounge on Norwood Avenue left two men injured early Thursday morning, according to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.
President Joe Biden is commuting the sentences of 37 of the 40 people on federal death row, converting their punishments to life imprisonment mere weeks before President-elect Donald Trump, an outspoken proponent of expanding capital punishment, takes office.
Cure Violence was announced with a lot of fanfare back in 2019. At first, the data suggested it was making a difference. Then it ended in 2023 and the city pulled funding in March 2024. The Office of Inspector General says it launched its investigation to find out why the city terminated the contract.
Despite the time of year, temperatures have been unseasonably warm, even for Florida, and Kids and Car Safety wants to remind parents to be vigilant -- no matter the season -- after wo children died in hot cars in Florida in the first week of November.
A 26-year-old man is facing charges after the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office said he hit a police horse in the face after the Georgia-Florida game on Saturday.
Jodi Mohrmann, who along with reporters helped craft countless award-winning investigations for the News4JAX I-TEAM, is stepping down from her position after nearly 14 years at THE Local Station.
