Lee Gilley Fled to Italy After Being Charged With Pregnant Wife’s Murder. Now, a Squatter Has Taken Over His Houston Home

In a 𝓈𝒽𝓸𝒸𝓀𝒾𝓃𝑔 twist to an already tragic story, Lee Gilley, who fled to Italy after being charged with the murder of his pregnant wife, has now found his Houston home occupied by a squatter. This unexpected development adds another layer of complexity to an already tumultuous case that has captured public attention.

On May 1, just days before his murder trial was set to commence, Gilley reportedly removed his ankle monitor and made a swift exit from the United States, first traveling to Canada before arriving in Italy. His departure came after he was placed under house arrest at the residence where prosecutors allege he killed his wife, Christa Bauer Gilley, in October 2024.

While Gilley was allegedly evading justice overseas, a squatter was busy making claims to his Houston property. According to public records obtained by PEOPLE, a warranty deed was filed on May 8, indicating that Save a Life Houses, LLC, a Missouri-based company, now purportedly owns the home. Matthew Jackson, the company’s representative, signed the deed, which was officially recorded on May 21.

The situation escalated when Christopher Bauer, Christa’s father, visited the property only to find it occupied. Reports indicate that he discovered a “No Trespassing” sign affixed to a window, alongside the filed warranty deed. Concerned, he alerted the authorities, who confirmed the presence of a squatter inside. However, the individual refused to leave, claiming they could prove ownership in court.

Despite the squatter’s assertions, official records still list Lee and Christa Gilley as the rightful owners of the home. As Gilley prepares to return to the U.S., he faces not only the original murder charges but also potential legal repercussions for his flight from justice. Texas officials have reportedly initiated extradition proceedings to bring him back.

With Gilley’s trial now postponed and his legal troubles mounting, the question remains: how will he navigate the tangled web of accusations, claims, and the unexpected squatter in his home?