Houston man charged with capital murder in pregnant wife's death

Trial date set for Lee Mongerson Gilley in 2024 killing of Christa Gilley in The Heights neighborhood

Apr. 16, 2026 at 8:51pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a crumpled, bloodstained piece of fabric against a pitch-black background, conveying the somber and investigative nature of a violent crime scene.A recent wave of domestic violence cases in Houston has left the community shaken and searching for solutions.Houston Today

A Houston man has been charged with capital murder in the 2024 death of his pregnant wife, Christa Gilley, in the city's The Heights neighborhood. Lee Mongerson Gilley is set to stand trial on May 29 for the alleged killing, which authorities say was caused by compression of the neck.

Why it matters

Domestic violence and the killing of pregnant women are serious issues that impact families and communities. This case will shed light on the dynamics of this alleged crime and the legal process for holding the accused accountable.

The details

According to court records, Gilley initially told police that he found his wife unresponsive and believed she had overdosed. However, an autopsy determined that Christa Gilley's death was a homicide due to strangulation. Gilley later admitted that his wife was not suicidal or a drug user, and that they had been arguing before her death. Two young children were reportedly inside the home at the time of the incident.

  • The incident occurred on October 7, 2024.
  • Gilley was arrested several days after his wife's death.
  • Gilley was indicted on the capital murder charge in April 2025.
  • The trial is scheduled to begin on May 29, 2026.

The players

Lee Mongerson Gilley

A Houston resident charged with capital murder in the 2024 death of his pregnant wife, Christa Gilley.

Christa Gilley

Gilley's pregnant wife who was killed in 2024 in the Heights neighborhood of Houston.

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What they’re saying

“Gilley said his wife had overdosed and he attempted CPR.”

— Lee Mongerson Gilley

“Gilley later admitted his wife was not suicidal and was not a drug user.”

— Lee Mongerson Gilley

What’s next

The judge will preside over Gilley's capital murder trial, which is scheduled to begin on May 29, 2026.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for continued awareness and action around domestic violence, especially when it involves vulnerable victims like pregnant women. The upcoming trial will be closely watched as the community seeks justice and answers.