Ex-MLB Pitcher Gets Life for Father-in-Law's Murder

On February 27, 2026, a judge handed down a life sentence without the possibility of parole to 52-year-old Serafini. This conviction is for the murder of his father-in-law, Gary Spohr, and the attempted murder of his mother-in-law, Wendy Wood.

Serafini's sentencing followed his guilty verdict seven months earlier for first-degree murder, attempted murder, and burglary. His request for a new trial earlier this month was denied.

The crimes occurred in 2021 at a Tahoe City, California home. Police found Gary Spohr deceased and Wendy Wood critically injured from a gunshot. Wood had called 911 after being shot by a masked intruder.

Detectives identified Serafini as the suspect, leading to his arrest in October 2023. His estranged wife, Erin Spohr, requested leniency during the sentencing, despite her sister, Adrienne Spohr, stating that the heartbreak of her father's death was too much for her mother, who later died by suicide.

Samantha Scott, who allegedly had an affair with Serafini, was also charged. She made a deal with prosecutors, pleading guilty to an accessory charge in exchange for testifying against Serafini. Scott faces up to three years in prison.

Erin Spohr maintained her husband's innocence during the trial, testifying that surveillance video did not match the man she knew. She filed for divorce following his conviction in August 2025.

Serafini was a relief pitcher in the MLB from 1996 to 2007, playing for teams including the Minnesota Twins and Chicago Cubs.