Lee Gilley, a Texas man accused in the 2024 death of his pregnant wife, Christa Bauer Gilley, has been located in Italy after leaving the United States just weeks before his scheduled trial.

Authorities say Gilley, 39, was out on bond when he allegedly removed his court-ordered ankle monitor and departed the country on May 1, 2026.

According to a federal criminal complaint, Gilley traveled to Milan on an Air Canada flight and arrived in Italy on May 3 while using the name “Lejeune Jean Luc Olivier.” Officials say he presented Belgian identification documents that were later determined to be fraudulent.

While awaiting deportation proceedings, Gilley reportedly disclosed his true idenтιтy and informed Italian authorities that he was awaiting trial in the United States in connection with his wife’s death. He has since requested asylum in Italy.

During a court hearing in Turin on May 12, Gilley maintained his innocence and said he fled because he feared for his safety. He also cited Italy’s opposition to the death penalty as one reason he chose the country, although prosecutors in Texas have not announced any plans to seek capital punishment.

The Harris County District Attorney’s Office has stated that it is working with U.S. and Italian authorities to secure Gilley’s return so he can stand trial.

Background of the case
Christa Bauer Gilley died in October 2024 after being found unresponsive inside the couple’s Houston home. Court records indicate she was nine weeks pregnant at the time of her death.

Gilley initially called 911 and reported that his wife had died from a suspected drug overdose. However, investigators later determined that her death was a homicide.

According to the Harris County Medical Examiner, the cause of death was compression injuries to the neck and back. Hospital staff also reportedly observed bruising and facial injuries.

Gilley was arrested on October 11, 2024, and charged with capital murder in connection with the deaths of both Christa and her unborn child.

He was later released on a $1 million bond under several conditions, including surrendering his pᴀssport and wearing an electronic ankle monitor.

Prosecutors allege plans to flee
Court filings submitted before trial allege that Gilley communicated with another woman about leaving the country and discussed ways to remove his ankle monitor.

Prosecutors also allege he explored options for obtaining a new idenтιтy and discussed using alternative identification documents to avoid prosecution.

These allegations remain part of the prosecution’s case and have not yet been tested at trial.

What happens next?
The legal process now involves potential extradition proceedings between Italy and the United States.

Gilley has not been convicted, and he continues to deny all allegations against him. Under the law, he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Meanwhile, Christa Bauer Gilley’s family says they remain focused on seeing the case proceed through the justice system.

As international authorities work together, the case has drawn significant public attention and highlights the complexities that can arise when criminal proceedings extend across national borders.