Final defendant sentenced in Collier County attempted murder plot case

The final defendant in a 2023 attempted murder case in Collier County has been sentenced, marking the end of a legal process for survivor Scotty McCandless. On Thursday, Julian Wolf entered a plea deal with the state and was sentenced to 13 years in prison, with credit for the three years he has already served. Wolf had testified against the other two defendants, Ryan Toranzo and Rebecca Gabay, who were sentenced in June to life in prison and 30 years, respectively. McCandless and his then-girlfriend, Amy Chesser, survived gunshots to the head during the attack, which occurred on Immokalee Road on June 1, 2023. Reflecting on the ordeal, McCandless said, "The last thing I said was, 'I love you, Amy,' because I knew we were both going to die in that truck." McCandless said he immediately understood the situation when the gunshots rang out. "From when the gunshots went off, I knew what was going on," he said. The attack stemmed from a bitter custody battle involving the two children McCandless shares with Gabay. Despite the sentencing of all three defendants, McCandless said the situation remains unresolved. "I have to deal with explaining later on in life to the kids that, you know, we could have had a great relationship," he said. McCandless expressed gratitude for Wolf’s decision to testify against the other defendants. "I'm glad Julian actually stepped up to the plate and did what he needed to do and told the truth," he said. "I don't think he knew what he was getting himself into." Now, McCandless is focused on raising his children and moving forward. "Things are gonna happen in your life, good things, bad things. When bad things happen, hunker down and good things will come," he said. McCandless said he has found peace in the situation and is happy justice was served. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment, and original programming on your TV.