Former Major League Baseball pitcher Danny Serafini has been convicted of first-degree murder and attempted murder in the killing of his father-in-law, Robert Gary Spohr, and the shooting of his mother-in-law, Wendy Wood. The conviction follows a two-year investigation into the June 2021 shooting in North Lake Tahoe.
The Crime and Investigation
On June 2021, first responders discovered Gary Spohr, 70, dead from gunshot wounds at his home in Tahoe City, while his wife, Wendy Wood, 68, was critically injured.
She was transported to a nearby hospital and survived, though she tragically died by suicide in 2023. Detectives later determined that Serafini, 51, was responsible for the horrific attack on his in-laws.
After an extensive investigation, Serafini was arrested in Nevada in October 2023, following a two-year probe by the Placer County Sheriff’s Office.
The investigation revealed that Serafini had shot his in-laws, leading to his charges of first-degree murder, attempted murder, burglary, and related firearm offenses. The jury also found that Serafini committed the crime while “lying in wait” and ruled it a felony murder.
Trial and Conviction
Serafini’s trial lasted six weeks, during which the jury heard testimony from dozens of witnesses and saw forensic evidence, including digital, cell phone, and video evidence. The prosecution argued that the shooting was financially motivated, and the crime occurred with two young children in the home, aged 3 years and 8 months.
Serafini’s lover, Samantha Scott, who had previously worked as his nanny, pleaded guilty in February 2024 to being an accessory to the crime. Scott admitted to driving Serafini to his in-laws’ home on the day of the shooting. She is still awaiting sentencing.
Serafini’s wife, Erin Spohr, the daughter of the victims, testified during the trial, revealing that she and Serafini had an open marriage, and she still trusted him despite the charges. Erin’s sister, Adrienne Spohr, spoke outside the courthouse, saying, “It’s been four years since my mom and dad were shot, and it’s been four years of just hell.”
The Legacy of a Former MLB Player
Serafini, a former relief pitcher, had a seven-season career in Major League Baseball, playing for teams including the Minnesota Twins, Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds, and Colorado Rockies. Despite his athletic achievements, his career has now been overshadowed by the conviction in this tragic crime.
Sentencing and Aftermath
Serafini is scheduled to be sentenced on August 18, 2024. His conviction closes a long chapter for the victims’ family, who have endured years of pain and loss since the shooting. The case has highlighted the devastating impact of violent crime on families and the long path to justice.
