SAN ANTONIO — (Editor’s note: The above video was aired before the DA’s decision to not pursue the death penalty.)
Bexar County Criminal District Attorney Joe Gonzales has decided not to pursue the death penalty against Christopher Preciado, the man accused of killing Matthew Guerra, his pregnant girlfriend Savanah Soto and their unborn child, Fabian, in 2023.
Guerra and Soto’s families have been pushing for the death penalty, believing it’d be a form of justice after their losses.
“This is more than just Savanah, Matthew, Fabian,” said Gabriel Guerra, Matthew’s father, before the decision was announced. “This would be sending a message to anyone that if any pregnant girl gets hurt and loses a child, we can protect further lives and possibly make people think twice before doing something terrible.”
Matthew Guerra and Savanah Soto were reported missing in December 2023. Their bodies, along with baby Fabian’s, were found with gunshot wounds, in a locked car hidden away at a northeast San Antonio apartment complex.
READ: The murders of Savanah Soto and Matthew Guerra: What we know about the case
Eight days later, police arrested Christopher Preciado, his father Ramon Preciado and stepmom Myrta Romanos. All three are facing charges related to the deaths of Savanah Soto, Matthew Guerra and Fabian, though only Christopher Preciado is facing capital murder charges.
Ramon Preciado, who allegedly helped his son dispose of the bodies, was released on bond in February after more than a year in jail.
Gonzales has only pursued the death penalty twice in his term.
In a statement, Gonzales wrote:
“I fully acknowledge that the decision not to seek the death penalty will be difficult for the families of Savanah Soto and Matthew Guerra. I understand that no decision in this matter can be without its pain or consequences. Every case is different, and the goal is always to make a decision that is measured, thoughtful, and to the best of my ability, is fair, just, and in line with the values of our community.”
Chris Preciado will face the maximum sentence of life in prison without parole if found guilty.