Overview
- Serafini was convicted in July 2025 of first-degree murder, attempted murder and first-degree burglary, with lying-in-wait and firearm enhancements.
- Prosecutors said he broke into his in-laws’ Homewood home, hid inside and ambushed them; Gary Spohr was killed and Wendy Wood later died by suicide while recovering.
- The prosecution’s case highlighted years of hostility and financial disputes, including a $1.3 million loan, and statements that he would pay $20,000 to have them killed.
- Co-defendant Samantha Scott pleaded guilty to being an accessory and testified she drove Serafini to the area, saw a gun and a PVC-pipe silencer, and later discarded items.
- At sentencing, Judge Garen J. Horst castigated Serafini’s credibility as he maintained his innocence, and the victims’ daughter detailed enduring family trauma; he will serve his term in California state custody.