American Man Who Fled U.S. After Allegedly Killing Pregnant Wife Could Return Within Days as Murder Charge Is Dropped

Italy has approved the partial extradition of Lee Gilley, the Texas man accused of murder, following months of legal disputes involving U.S. and Italian courts, News Media has confirmed.

Gilley is charged in the 2024 deaths of his pregnant wife, Christa Bauer Gilley, and their unborn child. He was expected to stand trial in Harris County earlier this year, but authorities say he removed his ankle monitor and fled the United States. According to KPRC, Gilley left his residence on a bicycle before taking a private jet from Memphis, Tennessee, prompting investigators to believe he received assistance in escaping the country.

According to an Italian court motion obtained by News Media and translated into English, the extradition was approved for a murder charge rather than capital murder.

The ruling makes Gilley’s return conditional on his being prosecuted for first-degree murder in connection with his wife’s death. Italy will not extradite him to face a charge related to the death of the unborn child.

Italy had previously rejected extradition requests because of concerns that Gilley could face capital punishment in Texas, including the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole, if convicted.

Under the reduced charge, Gilley could face between five and 99 years in prison if found guilty, based on Texas sentencing law.

The Italian court’s decision does not guarantee that Gilley will immediately be sent back to the United States.

Defense attorney Dick DeGuerin told News Media that Gilley’s legal team is expected to appeal the decision in the coming days.

An appeal could prolong the already drawn-out extradition process and further delay Gilley’s return to Texas to face the charges. His attorney did not provide a specific timetable for when he might be back in the United States.