Web Desk
Houston, TX – A Houston man accused of killing his wife with a clothing iron allegedly sought a $1 million loan before the crime, prosecutors revealed in court.
Murder Charges and Crime Scene Investigation
Chance Chavez, 34, faces murder charges for the death of his wife, Kristen Chavez, 32. Police discovered her body in an upstairs bedroom at their home on Emma Forest Street.
Investigators believe Chavez repeatedly struck her with a clothing iron, which was found broken at the scene. Officers arrived to find Chavez covered in dried blood, reportedly raising his hands as if surrendering.
Financial Motive and Domestic History
Authorities are reviewing the couple’s financial records, suspecting a link between the loan and the murder. Although the couple had a history of domestic issues, Chavez had never faced prior charges.
Search for Missing Dogs
After Kristen Chavez’s death, concerns grew over the couple’s missing dogs. Flyers circulated online in an effort to locate them.
Three dogs were later found alive—one roaming an apartment complex 17 miles from their home.
A fourth dog, Peaches, was discovered deceased inside a plastic bag along a roadside. Prosecutors have ordered a necropsy.
Court Appearance and Bail Decision
On Monday, Chavez refused to leave his jail cell, delaying his scheduled court appearance.
Deputies forcibly escorted him to the 176th District Court, where a judge set his bail at $500,000. Prosecutors had pushed for a $1 million bond, citing concerns over his behavior.
His attorney, George Tennant, claimed Chavez was in shock and struggling to comprehend the situation.
Meanwhile, crime victim advocates, including Andy Kahan from Crime Stoppers, expressed frustration over court delays.
“This marks the start of a difficult legal battle,” Kahan said. “Her family never wants to see him free again.”
