How Did Ex of Slain Microsoft Exec Jared Bridegan NOT Think She Would Be Caught?

Nov 16, 2023, 02:00 PM

Have you ever wondered what drives a person to commit the unimaginable? The recent developments in the murder case of Jared Bridegan, a Microsoft executive, bring this question to the fore. In a revealing episode of "Hidden Killers," hosted by Tony Brueski with retired FBI Special Agent Robin Dreeke, the convoluted layers of this high-profile case were dissected, offering insights into the human psyche and the dark underbelly of revenge and wealth.
 
 Jared Bridegan's murder has remained a topic of intense scrutiny, more so with his ex-wife, Shanna Lee Gardner, switching attorneys to Jose Baez, known for representing Casey Anthony. Brueski notes the questionable optics of this decision, stating, "Nothing says innocent like saying, I need Jose Baez to represent me because the cards are very stacked against me." The implication here is stark – the switch to a high-profile attorney in a case already mired in controversy adds another layer of suspicion.
 
 Dreeke and Brueski delve into the psychology behind such crimes. They discuss the concept of 'wound collectors,' individuals who blame others for their grievances, potentially leading to extreme actions like hiring a hitman. In Gardner's case, a prolonged custody battle over her children with Bridegan is highlighted as a possible motive. "Why is she battling so hard for the kids to the point where she was willing to hire a hitman to kill her ex-husband?" Brueski ponders, pointing out the perplexity in her actions.
 
 The hosts critically analyze the execution of the hit itself, labeling it as "incredibly stupid" and poorly planned. The tragedy, however, extends beyond the botched execution to the children left fatherless, a point both Brueski and Dreeke emphasize. Bridegan was portrayed as a devoted father, further complicating the narrative around Gardner's alleged involvement.
 
 Furthermore, the involvement of Gardner's new husband, Mario Saldana, adds another twist. Charged earlier in the summer, his role and motivation remain a puzzle. "What would be his motivation?" Brueski questions, suggesting that perhaps Gardner's complaints about her ex-husband might have triggered Saldana's actions.
 
 The conversation then shifts to a broader contemplation of human behavior in such scenarios. Dreeke, with his background in behavioral analysis, offers a profound insight: "Everyone is extremely predictable, even her, if she's guilty. We will always act in her own best interests in terms of safety, security, and prosperity for our own perspective." He stresses the need to understand what Gardner perceived as her best interest, suggesting that her actions, however irrational they might seem, were based on a deeply personal rationale.
 
 The hosts also draw parallels with other infamous cases, like Lori Vallow, to underscore the capacity of the human mind to rationalize even the most heinous acts. "It's amazing what the human mind is able to rationalize," Brueski remarks, a statement that echoes throughout the discussion.
 
 In closing, the conversation leaves us with another intriguing question: How does one truly understand the actions of individuals like Gardner, if indeed she is guilty? The case of Jared Bridegan not only uncovers the lengths to which individuals might go for perceived justice or revenge but also challenges us to consider the complex and often unfathomable workings of the human mind.
 
 As this saga continues to unfold, one can't help but ponder – what are the limits of human rationalization in the face of adversity, and at what point does the pursuit of self-interest cross into the realm of the unthinkable?
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