BEXAR COUNTY, Texas – The capital murder trial of Christopher Preciado is nearing its conclusion. He is accused of killing a young couple, Matthew Guerra and Savanah Soto, along with their unborn child. The trial has captured the attention of many, as it raises serious questions about violence and accountability.
Preciado, who is pleading not guilty, is facing serious charges stemming from events that took place on December 21, 2023. If convicted, he could spend the rest of his life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Judge Jennifer Pena is presiding over this high-profile case in the 290th Criminal District Court of Bexar County. On Thursday morning, she began reading the charges against Preciado, which set the stage for closing arguments.
At around 10:30 a.m., Bexar County co-prosecutor Ross Lewis delivered his closing argument. He emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “Three deaths. $300.” He clarified that a person cannot claim self-defense while committing a crime, highlighting the moral complexities involved in this case.
Timeline of Events
Savanah Soto was expected to be induced on December 22, 2023, but she never arrived for her appointment. Both Soto and Guerra were last heard from on December 21. Concerned family members quickly reported Soto missing, prompting authorities to issue a statewide alert by Christmas Day.
Tragically, their bodies were discovered on December 26 in Guerra’s vehicle, parked at a Leon Valley apartment complex. This shocking discovery led to a swift investigation.
Christopher Preciado, then just 19 years old, was arrested on January 3, 2024, on charges of capital murder. His father, Ramon Preciado, faced charges related to tampering with evidence and abuse of a human corpse. Further complicating matters, Preciado’s mother, Myrta Romanos, was also arrested for allegedly attempting to cover up the crime.
The families of Soto and Guerra did not know the Preciados, and police indicated that tensions arose from a drug deal that spiraled out of control. In his account to the police, Christopher claimed that Guerra had threatened him with a gun, leading to the violent confrontation that resulted in the deaths.
As the trial progressed, it was noted that the prosecution called a total of 36 witnesses, including law enforcement, expert witnesses, and family members. Interestingly, neither Ramon Preciado nor Romanos testified, as they were not called to the stand.
The trial has been lengthy, expected to last over a week, and it has shed light on the serious societal issues surrounding violence, drugs, and the impact on families. It will be crucial to see how the jury ultimately decides in this heart-wrenching case.
