HOUSTON — A man accused of killing his wife remains in jail on no bond.
Lee Mongerson Gilley was in a Houston courtroom Monday for a bond hearing that ended up being postponed. He’s charged with capital murder, accused of strangling his wife while she was about nine weeks pregnant last Monday. His bond hearing will now be held on Thursday.
Lee Gilley, 39, is accused of killing his wife, Christa Gilley, by strangulation.
Prosecutor Lindsey Bondurant spoke with KHOU 11 about the impact the incident has had on the woman's family.
"It's a family in mourning, understandably just undergoing some things. Extremely, extremely traumatic experience with the loss of a daughter, sister, mother," Bondurant said.
An attorney for Christa Gilley's family sent KHOU 11 the following statement:
"Christa's family is devastated by her tragic death and the death of her unborn child. Christa was an amazing mother, full of love, and excited to welcome her third child. They were taken from this world needlessly and way too early. Christa's family appreciates the outpouring from the community and hopes for justice for their daughter and their unborn grandchild. They are here to support Christa's children and to focus on the memory of their daughter."
According to authorities, the couple was at their home in the Heights on Allston Street near 8th Street at the time of the alleged incident, which was on Oct. 7.
That's when Lee Gilley allegedly called 911 to report his wife's death. Court documents claim he told an operator that Christa Gilley overdosed and killed herself and that he performed CPR.
Christa Gilley was taken to the hospital where she was pronounced dead. A medical examiner reported injuries to her body that were consistent with strangulation.
It was later revealed she was nine weeks pregnant. Some of Christa's co-workers said she was a kind person and a loving mother.
Neighbors echoed Christa's co-workers' sentiments.
"I am just in complete shock," Christine Anderson said. "She was a great neighbor and a great mom. I know she was a physical therapist. I am sure she was an amazing physical therapist."
Officials said the couple had been arguing before Christa Gilley's death.
A vigil will be held for Christa's death on Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Marmion Park.
Lee Gilley is due back in court on Thursday. Prosecutors confirmed the couple's children are staying with family members.