NEW HAVEN, CT — Jose Morales, on trial for the 2019 murder of Christine Holloway and disappearance of their infant daughter Vanessa, took the witness stand this week, testifying that he did not kill Holloway but witnessed the assault while under the influence of PCP.
Morales, who faces charges of murder and tampering with evidence, told jurors that two unidentified men entered the Ansonia apartment he shared with Holloway.
He claimed one of them fatally attacked Holloway with a crowbar while the other abducted their 14-month-old daughter, Vanessa Morales, who has not been seen since.
He admitted to moving Holloway’s body to the bathtub and using towels and a bucket to clean the blood, discarding the water through a garbage disposal.
Morales said he placed her clothes in a washing machine, stating he was sad and wanted her dressed.
The state cross-examined Morales aggressively, questioning the credibility of his account.
“Mr. Morales, did you kill Christine Holloway?” State’s Attorney Howard Stein asked.
“No,” Morales answered.
“Were you so intoxicated on a substance — PCP or alcohol, or any other substance — that you do not remember killing Christine Holloway?”
“I did not kill Christine Holloway,” Morales replied.
Prosecutors presented text messages in which Morales called Holloway “a pig” and accused her of infidelity. Morales acknowledged the messages and stated he “probably” accused her of being unfaithful.
Holloway’s body was discovered in her Myrtle Avenue home on December 2, 2019. Morales was arrested on February 7, 2020.
Morales testified that he was high on PCP when the attack occurred and claimed he could not help due to the drug’s effects.
He also stated that one of the alleged attackers threatened him, saying Vanessa would suffer the same fate if he contacted the police.
Morales admitted to not calling 911 and said fear prevented him from seeking help or performing CPR.
The trial, now in its final stages, paused Friday.
Closing arguments are expected Monday. The judge has instructed jurors to avoid media coverage and refrain from discussing the case.
Vanessa Morales remains missing. Her disappearance continues to be treated as an open investigation.
