The Houston community is grappling with the violent death of 38-year-old pregnant woman Christa Bauer Gilley, allegedly killed by her husband, Lee Gilley. The mom of two was nine weeks pregnant when she was found dead last week in her Houston home. The children were reportedly on the premises at the time of the incident.
In the wake of her death, Christa’s friends have launched a GoFundMe campaign to render financial aid to the victim’s children. In less than a day, the fundraiser has raised over $100,000.
According to her LinkedIn profile, Christa Bauer Gilley was a physical therapist at Memorial Hermann Health System and a professor at the University of Texas Medical Branch. Christa, described as an innately compassionate person, was the mom of two toddlers who will reportedly turn two and four in the upcoming months.
The fundraiser was initiated with a goal to raise $200,000 which will go toward taking care of the two young children. The funds will also be used to cover any legal costs. The statement in the GoFundMe said:
“Please consider a donation to support her family and mitigate the burden of legal, court and travel costs, so they can focus on surrounding her children with love and stability in this devastating time, and for years to come. Your help will also go towards childcare, food and housing expenses that will allow them to concentrate on Christa’s babies.”
In less than 24 hours, the fundraiser has raised $107,000 and counting.
What happened to Christa Bauer Gilley?
Per multiple reports, on October 8, 2024, Christa Bauer Gilley was found dead by the police after her husband, Lee Gilley, a self-employed software consultant, called 911 stating his wife was unresponsive. At the time, Lee Gilley told police that Christa had overdosed at home. She was rushed to an area hospital where the staff thwarted the husband’s claim. The hospital staff said that she was strangled to death after her neck and face showed signs of trauma.
Lee Gilley was charged with murder for the death of his wife and unborn child after he confessed he and Christa were arguing before she was found unresponsive. Lee did not admit to killing his wife but said he had gone to bed after the argument and awoke to find her unconscious. Lee Gilley also stated that his wife was not suicidal or an addict.
According to Law and Crime, the couple reportedly met in 2007 at a dance class while seniors at Clemson University. Following a few dates, they went their separate ways before reconnecting eight years later and tying the knot in 2017.
Police have yet to disclose a potential motive for the crime.