Murder suspect Lee Gilley flees to Italy, squatters enter home

Lee Mongerson Gilley, a Houston man accused of killing his pregnant wife, has fled the United States just days before his murder trial was set to begin—while his former home has since been taken over by squatters, according to authorities and property records.

Gilley removed his ankle monitor on May 1, drove to the airport, and left the country, prosecutors said. As per People,he reportedly travelled first to Canada before continuing on to Italy, effectively becoming a fugitive ahead of his scheduled capital murder trial in the death of his wife, Christa Gilley.

At the time of his departure, Gilley was under house arrest and living at the Houston property where investigators allege the October 2024 killing took place. His release had been granted under strict pretrial conditions while he awaited court proceedings.

Gilley Fled Before Texas Murder Trial

Authorities say Gilley’s escape came just days before jury selection was expected to begin in his case. Once he left the country, attention quickly shifted back to the Houston property tied to the allegations.

On May 8, a warranty deed was filed claiming ownership of the home had been transferred to Save a Life Houses, LLC. The document was signed by Matthew Jackson, identified as an authorised representative of the Missouri-based company, and later recorded on May 21.

Houston police confirmed that a squatter has since taken up residence inside the home but declined to provide further details, referring additional questions to the Houston Constable’s Office.

The situation reportedly came to light after Christa Gilley’s father visited the property and found the blinds drawn and a “No Trespassing” sign posted on a window, along with documentation of the newly filed deed, according to local reports. Officers were later called to the scene and spoke with someone inside the home, who refused to leave and claimed ownership rights.

Despite the filing, official records still list Lee and Christa Gilley as the legal owners of the property, leaving its status in dispute as probate proceedings continue.

Meanwhile, Gilley’s criminal case has escalated further. Authorities in Texas have begun extradition proceedings with Italian officials in an effort to bring him back to the United States. His trial has been postponed, and additional charges related to his flight from the country are expected.

The case remains ongoing as investigators pursue both the fugitive defendant and the disputed ownership of the Houston home.