Man accused in the murder of his pregnant wife who worked as a physical therapist after changing his initial statement to the police

A Texas man has been accused of killing his wife, who was pregnant at the time of her death, while their other young children were reportedly home. 

Lee Mongerson Gilley, 38, is accused of choking his wife, Christa Bauer Gilley, 38, to death at their residence in Houston on October 7, resulting in the deaths of both her and their unborn child.

Christa’s friends expressed their heartbreak over the tragic events, stating on a charity page created for her family that the circumstances were incredibly distressing. They emphasized that the impact of her loss transcends the horrifying manner of her passing.

Houston police say 38-year-old Lee Gilley strangled his wife, 38-year-old Christa Bauer Gilley, to death. (Facebook/Christa Bauer Gilley)

Christa had her doctorate of physical therapy and worked with cardiovascular and pulmonary patients, WDBJ reported. 

Describing Christa as inherently nurturing, her friends highlighted her career in healthcare, where she shone as a physical therapist and later as an educator. Her compassionate nature was evident as she dedicated herself to caring for others.

“Most importantly, to Christa, she was a mother – the embodiment of selfless care – to her two surviving children. They will turn two and four in the coming months, without the mom who’d already planned their birthday celebrations.”