Former Reds Pitcher Dan Serafini Found Guilty of Murdering Father-in-Law
Former MLB pitcher Dan Serafini, who played a season with the Cincinnati Reds, has been convicted in connection to a deadly 2021 shooting in California that claimed the life of his father-in-law and seriously injured his mother-in-law. A jury found the 51-year-old guilty of first-degree murder, attempted murder, and first-degree burglary. He is being held without bail as he awaits sentencing next month.
The shooting occurred on June 5, 2021, at a Tahoe City residence. When authorities arrived, they discovered Robert Gary Spohr dead and Wendy Wood critically injured. Wood ultimately survived the initial attack but died by suicide in 2023.
Investigators concluded that Serafini had broken into the home and waited for hours before opening fire. Prosecutors said the motive stemmed from a financial conflict over a $1.3 million ranch renovation. Among the evidence presented was a chilling text from Serafini referencing a $21,000 dispute, in which he stated, “I’m gonna kill them one day.”
Serafini, who pitched for several teams during his MLB career, including a brief stint with the Reds in 2003, now faces life-altering consequences for the fatal incident that ended in tragedy for his extended family.
A second individual, 33-year-old Samantha Scott, was also taken into custody in connection with the case. In court, she was identified as both Serafini’s lover and a close friend of his wife. Scott pleaded guilty to an accessory charge in February.
Dan Serafini was selected in the first round of the 1992 MLB Draft and began his major league career with the Minnesota Twins, where he spent two seasons. Over the course of his career, he also played for the Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres, Pittsburgh Pirates, Cincinnati Reds, and Colorado Rockies. During his time with the Reds, Serafini recorded a 1-3 record and transitioned to a bullpen role, ending the season with a 5.40 ERA across 10 appearances.
