Preciado Trial: Social Media Messages and Lack of Physical Evidence Grab Center Stage
Bexar County, Texas – The capital murder trial of Christopher Preciado, accused in the deaths of Matthew Guerra, Savanah Soto, and their unborn child, continued Tuesday with testimony focusing on Preciado’s social media activity and the absence of direct physical evidence linking him to the crime. Lead investigator Detective Jeremy Goodwin faced extensive questioning regarding the evidence, or lack thereof, against Preciado.
Instagram Messages Reveal Potential Motive
Prosecutors presented Instagram messages sent by Preciado in the days surrounding the December 2023 murders. A message sent on December 20, 2023, referenced needing money by Friday and inquired about the cost of a car battery. Two days later, Preciado discussed rings, including one potentially a “Versace,” in another message. A Christmas Eve message mentioned picking up “the rest” from an apartment complex on Grissom Road – the address where Guerra and Soto resided.
These messages are central to the prosecution’s argument that Preciado had a motive for the killings, contradicting his claim of self-defense. Investigators discovered that rings belonging to Guerra were pawned shortly after the murders, and the funds were allegedly used to purchase new tires.
Social Media Posts After the Murders
Further social media posts revealed a complex relationship between Preciado and Guerra. One Instagram story, with a picture of Guerra, read, “Dis (sic) s— ain’t no joke. You either end up an OG, dead, or locked up,” followed by “RIP baby boy, he ain’t deserve dat s—.” These posts, prosecutors argue, demonstrate Preciado’s awareness of the situation and a lack of remorse.
Defense Highlights Lack of Physical Evidence
Despite the compelling social media evidence, Detective Goodwin conceded under defense questioning that there was no fingerprint evidence linking Preciado to the murder weapon. He also stated there were no witnesses who saw Preciado pull the trigger. This lack of direct physical evidence is a key component of the defense’s strategy.
Background of the Case
Savanah Soto, nearing her due date, failed to appear for a scheduled induction on December 22, 2023. Both Soto and her boyfriend, Matthew Guerra, were last heard from on December 21, 2023. Their bodies were discovered on December 26, 2023, in Guerra’s vehicle at a Leon Valley apartment complex.
Christopher Preciado, then 19, was arrested on January 3, 2024, and charged with capital murder. His father, Ramon Preciado, was arrested on charges of tampering with evidence and abuse of a human corpse. Ramon Preciado was later released on a reduced bond in February 2025. Charges against Myrta Romanos were dismissed in November 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges does Christopher Preciado face?
Christopher Preciado is charged with capital murder.
What is the potential sentence if Preciado is convicted?
If found guilty, Preciado faces up to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Was a livestream of the trial available?
No, the judge did not allow the trial to be livestreamed.
What role did Ramon Preciado play in the case?
Ramon Preciado was arrested on charges of tampering with evidence and abuse of a human corpse, but charges were later dropped against Myrta Romanos.
Where were the bodies of Savanah Soto and Matthew Guerra found?
The bodies were found in Guerra’s vehicle at a Leon Valley apartment complex.
What is the significance of the Instagram messages?
Prosecutors believe the messages reveal a potential motive for the murders, contradicting Preciado’s claim of self-defense.
Stay updated on the Christopher Preciado capital murder trial with continuous coverage from KSAT 12 News.
