Texas murder suspect captured in Italy after allegedly fleeing U.S.

A Texas man accused of killing his pregnant wife is now in custody in Italy after authorities say he fled the United States while awaiting trial.

(NBC)- A Texas man accused of killing his pregnant wife is now in custody in Italy after authorities say he fled the United States while awaiting trial.

According to court filings, Lee Gilley allegedly cut off his court-ordered ankle monitor on May 1 before leaving the country.

Investigators say Gilley, who is charged in the 2024 death of his wife Christa Gilley, traveled to Milan and arrived there on May 3.

Authorities allege he attempted to enter Italy using a fake Belgian passport under the name “Lejeune Jean Luc Olivier.”

The complaint states Italian officials detained Gilley on immigration-related issues, where he later revealed his true identity and reportedly admitted he was awaiting trial in the United States for the murder of his wife.

Gilley is now seeking asylum in Italy while potentially facing the death penalty in Texas if convicted.

His attorney did not directly comment on the asylum request but confirmed an extradition hearing is scheduled in Italy.

Back in the United States, investigators searched Gilley’s home Wednesday and towed away a vehicle connected to the investigation.

The home is the same location where Christa Gilley was found unresponsive in 2024.

Friends and family continue mourning her death while expressing frustration over Gilley’s alleged escape.

“It is a tragedy for so many reasons,” said Cara Kelly, one of Christa Gilley’s childhood friends. “She brought so much to so many of our lives.”

Kelly said the latest developments have only deepened the pain for those close to Christa.

“She should be here,” Kelly said. “She should be celebrating Mother’s Day with a one-year-old. And that was taken away from her.”

Authorities continue working through the extradition process as the case moves forward internationally.