Paramedic killed in murder-for-hire plot

[NolaRabbit]

FOLSOM, La. (AP) — Marital troubles and money motivated the alleged murder-for-hire of a Folsom-area paramedic, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Jack Strain said.

He said Mario Scramuzza Jr., 48, and Gina Scramuzza, 41, had been having problems for some time.

"I don't think it came as a huge surprise to anyone that something occurred between these two," Strain said Monday. "But I don't think anyone thought it would rise to this level."

Scramuzza was killed Friday night in his home, authorities said. A coroner's report said the man had been beaten and strangled.

Gina Scramuzza and Carlos A. Rodriguez, 38, of Kenner, are being held on first-degree murder charges. Deputies said they believe others may have been involved in the death of Scramuzza, a nephew of retired New Orleans seafood dealer Al Scramuzza.

Investigators said they believe Gina Scramuzza had been plotting the killing for months. Strain said the woman had paid Rodriguez, but would not say how much.

Scramuzza had several life insurance policies, and his wife was a beneficiary, Strain said.

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This is shocking news to the local EMS community here. Mario had many years of EMS experience in the New Orleans metro area and he was a good man. He leaves behind a 13 year old son after this horrendous crime. He will be missed.

 

[VentMedic]

This is indeed a very horrendous crime but one that has very personal orgins.

The child has now lost both parents.