Christa’s family is fighting for justice on multiple fronts—through the criminal case, family court, and probate court—and they need the community’s support now more than ever. Following her case ensures that her voice is heard, and that those responsible are held accountable. Stay informed, stand with the family, and help demand the justice Christa deserves.
Just days after a judge set a $1 million bond, Lee Mongerson Gilley, 38, was out of jail, charged with the murder of his wife, Christa, and their unborn child. The shocking case has rattled the Houston community and beyond, particularly in Summerville, South Carolina, where Christa grew up.
Christa, a 38-year-old mother of two and respected physical therapist at Memorial Hermann Hospital, was found unconscious in the couple’s Heights-area home on October 7, 2024. According to police records, Gilley told police she had overdosed, but medical findings contradicted this account.
An autopsy later confirmed that Christa had been strangled and was approximately nine weeks pregnant at the time of her death. The Harris County District Attorney’s Office has charged Gilley with capital murder — a charge that includes both Christa and her unborn child. Despite the gravity of the charges and the prosecution’s request for a $3 million bond, the judge set bond at $1 million. Gilley posted bond just days later.
Houston man accused of killing pregnant wife released on $1 million bond
October 21, 2024 – The bond was set Thursday for Lee Mongerson Gilley, 38, who was charged with capital murder for his wife’s death, Christa Gilley, 38. on Monday that very week.
Texas Man Claimed Pregnant Wife Died of Overdose. Now Police Allege He Strangled Her
October 16, 2024 – Christa Bauer Gilley, 38, was nine weeks pregnant with her third child when her husband, Lee Gilley, 38, allegedly killed her, authorities claim…
‘Incredibly loved’: Heights community honors memory of Christa Gilley with candlelight vigil
October 15, 2024 – As the sun set on the Heights neighborhood, over a hundred of Christa Bauer Gilley’s close friends and family members filed into Marmion Park, some wearing purple, some stopping to grab a candle and some sharing a hug with fellow mourners.